Here's a look at the history of each state's greatest athlete. Sixty-five percent of states named one of the greatest basketball or football players as their most beloved hometown hero. Michael Jordan, for instance is the best state athlete. Muhammad Ali, Kentucky's best boxer, is also listed as one the state's 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 was also the leader of Williston High School to 2 state championships. He also played basketball at North Dakota State University, scoring an average of 27 points as a Senior. His basketball career spanned seven centuries, winning him 12 NBA championships, including one as a player. He also earned 11 coaching awards.
Scottie Pippen
Pippen was honored by the Chicago Bulls as their greatest player during the 2008-09 postseason. His average of 21.0 points and 7.0 assists per game made him the most valuable player they have ever had. He also averaged 7.7 rebounds and 2.4% steals per match. 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
In this list, the best athlete from each state is Kirby Puckett, a professional baseball player who spent 12 years with the Minnesota Twins. He was the league's leader in hits four more times, and he won six Gold Glove awards. He won the MVP award three times and played well during 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 at least 12 NHL players, but none are even 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 was a high school athlete who developed his jump shot. He worked hard at college to perfect it, becoming one the few jumpers to make a living out of his skills in the professional ranks. His jump shot continues to make waves in the NBA today and he is often considered to be the best from each state. This article discusses the impact Sailors had on basketball and his legacy.
LeBron James
LeBron James has been called a legend in the world of sports. He is the best basketball player on the planet, has won four NBA championships and is currently leading the Cleveland Cavaliers to their inaugural NBA championship. LeBron has been awarded numerous awards. He also holds two Olympic medals, and is the NBA's MVP two times. Let's see how he ranks among all the great athletes of America.