Article:
As the holiday season approaches, it's time to curl up with some hot cocoa and enjoy classic holiday movies. But what if we drew parallels between these beloved films and the world of college basketball? Let's explore the connection between holiday movies and some prominent basketball teams.

First on the list is "Home Alone," a film that embodies the spirit of resilience and unexpected triumph. In a similar vein, the team that comes to mind is the resilient Brad Underwood-led Illinois Fighting Illini. With Underwood as their coach, they have shown the ability to step into challenging roles and emerge victorious.

Moving on to "The Santa Clause," the heartwarming tale of a regular dad who becomes Santa, we can't help but draw a parallel to a team like Purdue. Just like the grouchy dad had to step into Santa's shoes, the Boilermakers have consistently stepped up to the challenge on the basketball court.

The Hallmark Channel is known for its infinite lineup of heartwarming holiday movies. In the realm of college basketball, there are numerous underdog teams that embody the Hallmark spirit. These teams may not have the biggest budgets or the most star players, but they play with determination and heart, just like the characters in every Hallmark movie ever.

"Frosty the Snowman" brings us the tale of a magical snowman who comes to life. In college basketball, there are teams that seem to have a magical touch, capturing the hearts of fans. These squads, like Frosty, melt the competition with their skill, teamwork, and sheer love for the game.

"Miracle on 34th Street" is a cherished movie that holds a special place in the hearts of older folks. Similarly, there are basketball programs that invoke nostalgia and reverence. The rumors of a remake could be a testament to the enduring legacy of programs like Kansas or Kentucky, who have consistently captivated audiences with their storied histories.

"The Polar Express" is a movie that often polarizes audiences, much like the love-it-or-hate-it feelings towards certain basketball teams. Whether it's the infectious enthusiasm of Will Ferrell's character in "Elf" or the Chicago State team disrupting the cheerful atmosphere of their opponents, there's no denying that these teams evoke strong emotions from fans.

"Christmas Vacation" is a movie filled with chaos and unexpected events, much like the rollercoaster ride of Northwestern Wildcats basketball. Just when things seemed bright and cheerful, they faced setbacks. The question remains - will the Wildcats find their Christmas bonus and turn their season around?

"Eight Crazy Nights" captures the essence of redemption and growth, just like when a struggling basketball team like Rutgers manages to turn their fortunes around and become a positive force in the basketball landscape.

"It's a Wonderful Life" poses the hypothetical question of what would happen if something disappeared. The Maryland Terrapins had a tough season but their contributions to the Big Ten should not be forgotten, as there is still time to reflect on the value they bring to the conference.

"The Grinch" is known for stealing Christmas, but what about basketball teams that steal victories? This movie reminds us of the power of redemption and forgiveness, resonating with teams that may start off slow but find their groove as the season progresses.

Lastly, "Jingle All the Way" not only takes place in Minneapolis but also speaks to the struggles faced by the Minnesota Gophers basketball team. Like the movie's plot, the Gophers have battled to find their Christmas cheer and secure some much-needed wins.

While Christmas movies and college basketball may seem unrelated, the holiday season brings a sense of joy and magic that can be felt both on and off the court. As fans gear up for the festivities, they can now enjoy their favorite holiday movies with a newfound appreciation for the similarities they share with their beloved basketball teams.

Nonetheless, it's worth mentioning that "Die Hard" may not be a Christmas movie, but befittingly represents the truth that not every school can be a basketball powerhouse. Some schools just excel in different realms, and that's perfectly fine.

So grab a plate of cookies, settle into your favorite chair, and enjoy both the heartwarming holiday movies and the excitement of college basketball as the holiday season unfolds.