Here's a look at the history of each state's greatest athlete. Sixty percent of states ranked their favorite hometown hero as one of the great football or basketball icons. Michael Jordan, for example is the state’s best athlete. Muhammad Ali, Kentucky's national boxing champion, is listed as one of the top athletes. Andre Agassi, Tiger Woods, and Andre Agassi are the top sportsmen in California.
Bo Jackson
Bo Jackson is the most famous athlete from each state. Bo Jackson, a basketball legend, was the one who broke tackles in 1991's NCAA championship game. He also scored a 99-yard touchdown. He also led Williston High School to two state championships. As a senior, he scored an average of 27 points at the University of North Dakota. His basketball career stretched over seven decades. He won 12 NBA titles, including one as player and eleven as coach.
Scottie Pippen
Pippen was the Chicago Bulls' greatest player of 2008-09. He averaged 21.0 ppg and 7.0 assists per game. He averaged 7.7 rebounds per game and 2.4 steals. Pippen is currently the only active player who has a postseason double-double. In Game 1, he scored his first triplet against the Milwaukee Bucks.
Kirby Puckett
Kirby Puckett is the top-ranked athlete in each state. He was a professional baseball player who played 12 years for the Minnesota Twins. He led the league in hits four times and won six Gold Glove awards. He was nominated for the MVP three times and played in two World Series. His final season was a memorable one in team history.
Scott Gomez
The NHL has a long history of producing athletes, and the state of Alaska is no exception. Throughout its history, Alaska has produced at least 12 players who are currently playing in the NHL, though none have even come close to Gomez. Gomez, who was born in Anchorage played for the Alaska Aces throughout the NHL lockouts. The 2000 Calder Memorial Trophy winner has made his home state proud.
Ricky Sailors
Sailors learned his jump shot in high school. After graduating from high school, he continued to perfect his jump shot in college. He was one of only a few pro players to earn a living playing the jump shot. His jump shot still makes a splash in the NBA today, and he is often considered the best athlete from each state. This article will examine the legacy of Sailors and his impact on basketball.
LeBron James
LeBron James, one of the many sports legends, is one such example. He's considered to be the greatest basketball player, has won four NBA titles, and leads the Cleveland Cavaliers in their quest for their first NBA championship. LeBron has won numerous awards and is also an Olympic medalist. He was also a two time NBA MVP. Let's find out where he ranks among America's greatest athletes.