Here's an overview of who was the greatest athlete from each state during their peak years. Sixty-five percent of states named one of the greatest basketball or football players as their most beloved hometown hero. Michael Jordan is, for instance, the state's greatest athlete. Muhammad Ali, Kentucky's best boxer, is also listed as one the state's top athletes. Andre Agassi (Nevada) and Tiger Woods (California) are the two best athletes in California.
Bo Jackson
If you haven't heard of Bo Jackson, he is the best athlete from each state. Bo was a basketball superstar who broke tackles, and ran a 99 yard touchdown in the 1991 NCAA Championship game. He was also the leader of Williston High School to 2 state championships. As a senior at the University of North Dakota he averaged 27 point per game. His basketball career spans seven decades and earned him 12 NBA titles as a player, as well as 11 as a coach.
Scottie Pippen
The Chicago Bulls crowned Pippen their best player ever in the 2008-09 postseason, where he averaged 21.0 points and 7.0 assists per game. Pippen also had 7.7 rebounds, 2.4 steals and an average of 21.0 points per game. Pippen has the distinction of being the only active participant to post a double in the postseason. He recorded his first triple-double in Game 1 against the Milwaukee Bucks.
Kirby Puckett
Kirby Puckett was a 12 year veteran of the Minnesota Twins' professional baseball team and is listed as the best athlete for each state. He was the league's leader in hits four more times, and he won six Gold Glove awards. He was voted MVP three times, and he played in two World Series. His final season was one that will be remembered for its significance in team history. He ended his career with a high note.
Scott Gomez
The NHL has a long history producing athletes. Alaska is no different. Alaska has produced 12 NHL-level players over its history. But none even comes close to Gomez. Born in Anchorage, Gomez played for the Alaska Aces during the NHL lockouts. He has been a proud citizen of his home state as the 2000 Calder Memorial Trophy Trophy winner.
Ricky Sailors
In high school, Sailors developed his jump shot. Sailors continued to improve his jump shot at college and became one of few pro-level players who could make a living using it. He is still regarded as the best basketball player from each state, with his jump shot making a big splash in the NBA. This article will discuss the impact Sailors's legacy has had on basketball.
LeBron James
There are many legends in sports, and LeBron James is one of them. He is considered the greatest basketball player in the country, having won four NBA championships. Now, he leads the Cleveland Cavaliers towards 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 look at how he ranks with all the great American athletes.