1 EXHIBIT (b) Commitment Letter dated as of February 14, 2000 Between Bank One, Indianapolis, N.A. and the Company 2 [Bank One Letterhead] February 14, 2000 Escalade, Inc. P.O. Box 889 817 Maxwell Avenue Evansville, IN 47706-0889 Attn: John R. Wilson, Vice President & Chief Financial Officer Dear Sirs: It is my pleasure to advise you that Bank One, Indiana, N.A., has formally approved the extension of an additional $13.5 million of term credit to Escalade, Inc., for the purpose of funding the purchase of up to 750,000 outstanding shares of Escalade, Inc. common stock, via Dutch Auction, at a maximum price per share of $18. This commitment is subject only to the execution of mutually acceptable loan documentation. Thank you for this further opportunity to be of service. Sincerely, /s/ Steven J. Krakoski Steven J. Krakoski Vice President