Written by “A trophy carries dust. Memories last forever.”
Mary Lou Retton, American gymnast
Sports have a special way of connecting people. However, the moments we cherish most are when history is made. These are the moments that created impact beyond the stadium. Let’s take a look back at a few of the greatest moments in sports history!
A Legend is Born: 1991 NBA Championship
Michael Jordan’s first NBA Finals is the moment that solidified his destiny of becoming a champion. In the game, Jordan makes a legendary layup, where he switched hands midair and propelled the Bulls to their first NBA title. This was the first NBA title for the Bulls and the first final for Jordan. Many say that this was the moment they saw the Eye of the Tiger in Jordan.
Jackie Robinson’s first Major League game (1947)
Jackie Robinson made history by being the first black man in MLB history. He joined the Dodgers in 1947. During this time, his playing on national television was very controversial. However, he quickly became a star infielder, outfielder, and the National League’s Rookie of the Year. Robinson broke down barriers in the sports community and will forever be an icon.
The Best Fight in History: Muhammad Ali vs Sonny Liston (1965)
Boxing’s World Heavyweight Championship fights between Muhammad Ali and Sonny Liston was the most anticipated to watch. Before the fights, the two seemed to be foes outside as well as inside the ring. They were constantly arguing back and forth about their greatness. The second fight, however, ended with Ali’s victory, and this iconic photo was taken. The photograph gained a legacy of its own and has been used in pop culture ever since.
1936 Olympics in Berlin: Jessie Owen’s against Hitler
At this time, Hitler made a bold claim that the Germans would dominate the Olympics and prove racial superiority. However, Jesse Owen’s strived to prove the vile claim wrong. Owen’s won four gold medals and was named the star of the Berlin Olympics. He matched the world record (10.3 seconds) in the 100-meter race and broke the world records in the 200-meter race (20.7 seconds) and the broad jump (26 ft 5 2/8 in).
1981 NFC Championship Game: “The Catch” and the birth of the 49ers dynasty
With only 51 seconds left in the game, the legendary QB, Joe Montana, made a pass to the back corner of the end zone. It looked as if he was throwing the ball away until the wide receiver, Dwight Clark, appeared out of nowhere and made the iconic catch that caused the 49ers to win their first of five Super Bowl titles in 14 years. The moment went down in NFL history and coined the moniker “The Catch.” Last season was the NFL’s 100th season, so, in its honor, The Northwest made a series of blankets with images of the greatest moments in NFL. One of these being, ‘the catch.’
“Miracle on Ice” (1980)
This is arguably one of the most iconic moments in sports history. This was a victory for the U.S. hockey team, but it was also a victory against the Soviets. The U.S. team were the underdogs, whereas the Soviets were four-time undefeated gold medalists. There was no hope for the U.S. team; however, when the U.S. made the last winning goal, there was an uproar. The broadcaster, Al Michaels, iconically yelled, “Yes!” that was heard all over the world.
Header picture: (Credit: The Aspen Institute)