Amid serious topics, Obama lightens mood at town hall

INDIANAPOLIS (AP) - Amid serious talk about his proposal for free community college and programs to help the middle class, President Barack Obama had Hoosiers laughing Friday with references to his election record in the state, his love of the Chicago Bulls and his own basketball game.

Some of the lighter moments of his town hall at Ivy Tech Community College:

- After Mayor Greg Ballard welcomed the president despite the fact that he is a Chicago Bulls fan:"I respect the Pacers, but yes, I am a Bulls fan. I make no apologies. I'm looking forward to Mr. (Paul) George and some others getting back on track so we can have some more playoff runs."

- About traveling with former Sen. Richard Lugar, whom Obama joined on a trip to Russia as a new congressman: "Dick Lugar seems like a kind of relaxed guy, but if you're on a trip with him, he will wear you out."

- On his record in Indiana's presidential elections, which he won in 2008 but lost in 2012: "I'm one for two, which isn't bad. The last time ... I got kind of smoked here in Indiana. That's exactly why I wanted to come back."

- Responding to questions from Eddie White of the Indiana Pacers about the status of his basketball game and whether he'd be willing to go one-on-one with the Indiana Fever's Tamika Catchings: "My game's a little broke. I've been a little busy."