If you're wondering who the best athlete from each state was in their heyday, here's a look at who came from where. Sixty-five percent of states named one of the greatest basketball or football players as their most beloved hometown hero. 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 and Tiger Woods are the best sportsmen from Nevada and California.
Bo Jackson
Bo Jackson is the greatest athlete from each of the states. Bo was a basketball superstar who broke tackles, and ran a 99 yard touchdown in the 1991 NCAA Championship game. He also led Williston High School to two state championships. As a senior at the University of North Dakota he averaged 27 point per game. His basketball career was seven decades long, and he won 12 NBA titles, one as an athlete, and eleven as a coach.
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 the only active player to record a double-double in postseason, as he recorded his first triple-double against the Milwaukee Bucks in Game 1.
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 won six Gold Gloves awards and led the league in hits. 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 track record of producing elite athletes. Alaska is no exception. Alaska has produced 12 NHL-level players over its history. But none even comes close to Gomez. Gomez was a Anchorage native who played for Alaska Aces in the NHL lockouts. Gomez, a 2000 Calder Memorial Trophy recipient, has done his state proud.
Ricky Sailors
Sailors learned how to jump in high school. He then continued to hone it at college, becoming one of the few players to make a living from the jump shot in the pro ranks. 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 examines the impact Sailors has had on basketball, as well as his legacy.
LeBron James
LeBron James is just one of many sports legends. 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 see how he ranks among all the great athletes of America.