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 percent of states ranked their favorite hometown hero as one of the great football or basketball icons. Michael Jordan, the state’s most outstanding athlete, is an example. Muhammad Ali, Kentucky's national boxing champion, is listed as one of the top athletes. The best sportsmen in California and Nevada are Tiger Woods and Andre Agassi.
Bo Jackson
Bo Jackson is the state's best athlete, if you haven’t heard of him. 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, he scored an average of 27 points at the University of North Dakota. His basketball career spans seven decades and earned him 12 NBA titles as a player, as well as 11 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 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 won six Gold Gloves awards and led the league in hits. He reached the MVP vote three times and played well in two World Series. His last season was one of his most memorable, and he finished his career high.
Scott Gomez
The NHL has a long track record of producing elite athletes. Alaska is no exception. Alaska has produced at most 12 NHL players throughout its history. Gomez is the closest. 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
Sailors was a high school athlete who 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 considered one of the top athletes in each state for his jump shot. This article discusses the impact Sailors had on basketball and his legacy.
LeBron James
LeBron James is one legend in sports. 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 take a look at where he ranks in America's top athletes.