Top 50 Best Sports Moments

After reading Sports Illustrated Top 100 Greatest Moments in sports history, (SI 100 Moments) I became inspired to compile my own list. All my life I have had a fond appreciation for sports, both watching and participating. Although I don't consider myself an all around sports-junkie, I do have an above average knowledge of many sports rules and history. In this post I want to highlight the top moments in some of my favorite sports.

Honorable Mentions

54. Babe Ruth Points His Shot

• When: October 1st, 1932
• Event: World Series 
• Sport: Baseball
• Where: Chicago, IL; Wrigley Field Stadium
• Participants: New York Yankees vs Chicago Cubs
• Outcome: This is considered one of the greatest baseball folklore of all time, and whether it truly happened has often disputed. The Chicago Cubs fans were giving Babe a hard time, and Ruth was having fun with them eating it all up. During the 5th inning before his at-bat he pointed to center field as if calling his shot. He then blasted a 440 ft homerun thru center field just as he predicted. It is often disputed however that he was rather pointing at the Cubs pitcher, Charlie Root. Babe Ruth hit two homeruns that day, and the Yankees went on to win 7 to 5, and swept them the next day to win the World Series. Also of note, is that future president Franklin D. Roosevelt was in attendance at Wrigley Field that day.   

53. Sergio Ramos equalizing goal against Atletico Madrid UCL Final

• When: May 24th, 2014
• Event: UEFA Champions League Final
• Sport: Soccer
• Where: Lisbon, Portugal; Estadio da Luz
• Participants: Real Madrid vs Atletico Madrid; Sergio Ramos
• Outcome: It was yet another derby and classic UCL championship final. This time it matched superstar Cristiano Ronaldo and Real Madrid against their local rivals of Atletico Madrid. The majority of the game belonged to Atletico, who kept a tight lead at 1-0 thanks to Diego Godin's goal. However at the 93rd minute of stoppage time, off a corner kick, Sergio Ramos headed in the equalizer to send the game into extra time. At which point after, Real did not look back and began a scoring assault that secured them their 9th championship. Gareth Bale, Marcelo, and Ronaldo all scored goals. 
• How I witnessed it: I was watching this game live at my parents house in the living room with Philip, Shawnna, Gabriel, and Madre. I was very happy for Real Madrid and the exciting game we had just witnessed. 

52. Joe Namath's Guarantee

• When: Jan 12, 1969
• Event: Super Bowl III
• Sport: Football
• Where: Miami, FL; Miami Orange Bowl Stadium 
• Participants: New York Jets vs Baltimore Colts; Joe Namath
• Outcome: This was a significant moment in sports for various reasons. It was the 3rd NFL championship of the NFL-AFL merger, and the first time it took on the name the "Super Bowl". However what especially made this moment significant is when the underdog New York Jets quarterback, Joe Namath gaurenteed to the media that his team would win. On gameday his team would go on to back up their quarterback and defeat the highly favorite Baltimore Colts. Joe Namath went on to win most valuable player, and his bold gaurentee came to fruition. 

51. Rafael Nadal vs Roger Federer Wimbeldon

• When: July 6th, 2008
• Event: Wimbeldon Championship
• Sport: Tennis
• Where: Wimbledon, England
• Participants: Rafael Nadal vs Roger Federer
• Outcome: Nadal defeated Federer in one the closest, longest tennis finals of all time. It was a fitting final since the two have been without question the greatest tennis players of the modern era as well as all time. 

50. Kerri Strug stick's the Landing

• When: August 1996
• Event: 1996 Summer Olympics
• Sport: Gymnastics
• Where: Atlanta, GA
• Participants: Kerri Strug representing USA
• Outcome: The USA team had never won the team gold medal in the Olympics, however that changed in 1996 thanks to incredible effort of Kerri Strug. That year the Magnificent 7, coached by  Bela Karolyi, were on course to win the first ever gold for USA. However the Russians were hot on their tails, and the match came down to the final event of the vault. Kerri hurt her ankle on her first jump, and had hoped that she would not have to jump again. However the score was too tight, and Strug needed a 2nd jump to clinche the gold for her team. She then went on to nail her routine, and stuck the landing despite her ankle giving out. Her tough performance, in the midst of sheer pain, has become one of the most iconic moments in USA gymnastics and Olympic history. 

49. Pete Rose Breaks the Base Hit Record

• When: Sept 11th, 1985
• Event: Regular Season Game
• Sport: Baseball
• Where: Cincinnati, OH; Riverfront Stadium
• Participants: Pete Rose; San Diego Padres vs Cincinnati Reds
• Outcome: Ty Cobb's all time base-hit record was set in 1921 at the grand total of 4191. It stood for over 57 years, until Sept 11th, 1985 when Pete Rose broke it. He hit it off San Diego pitcher, Eric Show, cleanly into center field. By the time he retired a year later in 1986 he had set the all time hit record at 4256. The record still stands to this day. 

48. Zidane's game winning volley against Bayern Leverkusen in UEFA Final

• When: May 15th, 2002
• Event: UEFA Champions League Final
• Sport: Soccer
• Where: Glasgow, Scotland; Hampden Park
• Participants: Real Madrid vs Bayer Leverkusen; Zinedine Zidane
• Outcome: It was the championship game of the European Champions League with Real Madrid facing off against Bayer Leverkusen. Real Madrid got off to an early start with a goal from Raul, however it was later equalized by Leverkusen with a goal from Lucio. In the 45th minute came this glorious moment that won the game for Real Madrid. It was a cross from Roberto Carlos, which Zidane struck first time as a volley which rocketed past the keeper and into the upper corner of the net. It was not only an incredible goal, yet it was the goal that won his team the championship. Thus making this moment one of the best in soccer history. 

47. The Thrilla in Manila

• When: October 2nd, 1975
  
• Event: Heavyweight Boxing Championship
• Sport: Boxing
• Where: Quezon City, Philippines, Araneta Coliseum
• Participants: Muhammad Ali vs Joe Frazier
• Outcome: It was one of the greatest rivalries in boxing history, and this particular event was the culimation of their 3 fight series. Each had beaten the other once, and this was the fight to decide who was the greatest. Ali declared it would be a "killa and a thrilla and a chilla when I get that gorilla in Manilla". The fight was held in the Phillippines in front of an audience of 28,000. Both men gave it their all, and the fight went on until the 14th round, when the referee decided neither could take anymore. Ali went on to win by technical knock-out, and would later claim that it was the closest to dying he ever felt.  

46. Flutie Hail Mary

• When: Nov 23rd, 1984
• Event: Regular season match between Boston College and Miami
• Sport: College Football
• Where: Miami, FL; Miami Orange Bowl
• Participants: Boston College Eagles vs Miami Hurricanes
• Outcome: It is perhaps one of the most famous game-winning hail-mary touchdowns in the sport of football. Down 41-45, with no time left, Doug Flutie dropped back and launched a 60 yard bomb pass the defensive backs, and into the arms of Gerrard Phelan to win the game. Although it was only a regular season game, it became one of the most memorable finishes in college football. Doug Flutie also went on to win the Heismen trophy that year, much thanks to this heroic effort. On a side note I met Doug Flutie on various occasions when I worked on the Thursday Night Football show with ESPN, and he was a very stand-up guy. 

45. Willie Mays over the shoulder catch

• When: September 29th, 1954
• Event: World Series 
• Sport: Baseball
• Where: New York City; Polo Grounds  
• Participants: Willie Mayes; New York Giants vs Cleveland Indians
• Outcome: It was game 1 of the World Series between the New York Giants and the Cleveland Indians. At the top of the 8th inning with the game tied at 2, the Indians had two men on base and were on the cusp of taking the lead. However when a deep flyball was hit into center field, Wille Mayes made an incredible on the run, catch over his shoulders. He then quickly turned to throw the ball back to second base, holding the runners from scoring. This defensive play helped the Giants get out of the inning without any runs scored. They would later go on to win the game, and win the series. This catch is perhaps one of the most famous defensive plays in baseball history. 

44. Usain Bolt wins three golds and WRS in Beijing

• When: August 2008
• Event: 2008 Summer Olympics
• Sport: Track and Field
• Where: Beijing, China; The Nest
• Participants: Usain Bolt representing Jamaica
• Outcome: Although there have been several athletes that have acheived three gold medals at a single games, none are quite as prestigious as the sprinting events. Usain Bolt came to the world's attention with the most fitting of names and physique of a world class sprinter. He went on to win 3 gold medals at the Beijing games in the 100m, 200m, and 4x100m relay. What made this feat all the more incredible was that he broke world records in each of his gold medal performances. He became an instant celebritiy and without question the fastest man alive. He repeated this performance of 3 gold medals at the London 2012 games, however only set the WR in the 4x100 meter relay. 
• How I witnessed it: I remember watching the 2008 Beijing Olympics in my apartment in Chicago and being quite amazed and inspired by Usain's dominant performance. In 2012 I witnessed his 3 gold repeat with my family in New England. As a former sprinter and track athlete I was instantly a huge fan of his. 

43. Mario Gotze's game winning goal against Argentina

• When: July 13th, 2014
• Event: FIFA World Cup 2014
• Sport: Soccer
• Where: Rio de Janiero; Maracana Stadium
• Participants: Germany vs Argentina
• Outcome: The stage was set with Argentina as the favorite, and Lionel Messi eager to achieve the ultimate prize. However Germany had a different plan in mind, and shut Argentina down during regulation, and sent the game into extra time. It was in the 2nd half of extra time, at the 113th minute that Andre Schurle sent a cross into the box, which Mario Gotze received on his chest and quickly volleyed. The shot zipped past Argentine goalkeeper Sergio Romero, and the nation of Germany was at jubilation. Argentina was unable to equalize in the final few minutes and Germany went on to win their 4th World Cup thanks to Gotze's heroic moment. 
• How I witnessed it: I was watching the game here at my condo with Philip, Shawnna, and Benjamin. We were all devastated since we were cheering for Argentina, however still amazed with the importance of the goal.

42. Titans-Rams Superbowl finale ("One Yard Short")

• When: Jan 30th, 2000
• Event: Superbowl XXXIV
• Sport: Football
• Where: Atlanta Georgia; Georgia Dome Stadium
• Participants: St. Louis Rams vs Tennessee Titans; Mike Jones (Rams) made the game winning tackle on Kevin Dyson (Titans)
• Outcome: With six seconds remaining on the clock, the Titans were making their final drive to win the game. The ball was passed to wide receiver Kevin Tyson who was tackled by linebacker Mike Jones, just one yard short of the end-zone. Instead of tying the game and sending it to overtime, the clock ran out, and Titans fans everywhere were heartbroken by Mike Jones game-winning tackle. It was one of the most exciting finishes in superbowl history.

41. Carl Lewis 4 Gold Medals

• When: August 1984
• Event: 1984 Summer Olympics
• Sport: Track and Field
• Where: Los Angeles, CA
• Participants: Carl Lewis representing team USA
• Outcome: At the 1984 Olympics, Carl Lewis emulated Jesse Owens 1936 performance by winning 4 gold medals. He won gold in the 100m dash, the long jump, the 200m dash, and the 4x100m relay (of which his team set the world record). Carl Lewis went on to win 5 more golds and 1 silver in the Seol, Barcelona, and Atlanta games. With a grand total of 9 medals, he is the 2nd most decorated track and field Olympian of all time, behind Paavo Numi. However his dominant performance at the 1984 games, has only been matched by the great Jesse Owens. 

40. Brandi Chastain wins USA Womens World Cup

• When:July 10th, 1999
• Event: Fifa Women's World Cup in USA
• Sport: Soccer
• Where: Pasadena, CA; Rose Bowl
• Participants: USA vs China soccer team; Brandi Chastain
• Outcome: The USA Women's soccer team was unstoppable at the 1999 World Cup, lead by their superstar Mia Hamm. However it's most memorable moment came at the final in front of 90,000 fans. The score was tied 0-0 and went on to Penalty Kicks. US Goalkeeper, Briana Scurry, made a crucial save in the 5 round shootout. The final shooter was defender Brandi Chastain, who driller her goal home to win the championship. However her celebration is what became so memorable, as she took off her shirt and spun it around her head. It became one of the most defining moments for female athletes 
• How I witnessed it: I remember watching this on TV at our home at Park Ave. I had just become inspired by the sport of soccer and the significance of the World Cup the year before with France 98. Even tho it was for the women, I remember feeling the significance of Chastain's game winning moment. 

39. Drogba scored equalizing goal and PK vs Bayern Munich UCL

• When: May 19th, 2012
• Event: UEFA Champions League Final
• Sport: Soccer
• Where: Munich, Germany; Allianz Arena
• Participants: Bayern Munich vs Chelsea FC; Didier Drogba
• Outcome: Bayern Munich were the clear favorites as they had the advantage of hosting the final game. This would be their 9th apperance in the final, of which they had already won 4 times. Meanwhile it was only Chelsea's second time in the final match, having lost to Manchester United in 2008. The game did not have a breakthru until the 83rd minute when Bayern Munich forward, Thomas Muller scored to put his team ahead. It seemed all but over for Chelsea, until the 88th minute when Drogba slammed a header into the back of the net to equalize. The game went into extra time. Bayern once again had their chance to take the go ahead with a PK, however Petr Cech was able to save and deny Arjen Robben the chance. The game then went into PK shootout, and was decided by none other than the same hero who equalized for Chelsea; Didier Drogba. He made the final goal to win the PK shootout and bring Chelsea their 1st championship league title.

38. Red Sox Comeback against the Yankees 2004

• When: October 2004
• Event: American League Championship Series
• Sport: Baseball
• Where: New York City and Boston
• Participants: New York Yankees and Boston Red Sox
• Outcome: It is perhaps one of the greatest Championship Series of all time in the sport of baseball. This was due to the fact that the Red Sox became the first team to ever come back from a 3 game defecit and win the series. There were also many dramatic moments throughout this series, including Dave Roberts base-running, Curt Schilling's bloody red sock, and mutliple homeruns by Johnny Damon and David Ortiz. After winning this series the Red Sox would go on to beat the Cardinals and win their first series since 1918. Thus lifting the "Curse of the Bambino".  
• How I witnessed it: I remember watching this at Maxwell apartments with my college friends, especially Brett Rupright, who was a Yankees fan. Although I wasn't a Red Sox fan, I couldn't help but cheer for them since they were the underdogs. There was also some political ties since John Kerry was from Massachusetts. When Boston went down 3 games, I continued to believe and was very inspired to watch them become the 1st team to comeback from a 3 game deficit. We watched every single game, and I fell back in love with the sport of baseball and especially the Red Sox/Yankess rivarly. I also became a true fan of the sports comeback.

37. Eric Heiden's 5 Gold Medals in Ice Skating

• When: Feburary 1980
• Event: 1980 Winter Olympics Lake Placid
• Sport: Speedskating
• Where: Lake Placid, NY
• Participants: Eric Heiden representing USA
• Outcome: He won 5 Gold Medals in the 5 events he competed in; the 500m, 1000m, 1500m, 5000m, and 10000m. To this day he remains the most successful winter Olympian at a single Olympic games. 

36. Cal Ripken breaks most consecutive games record

• When: Sept 6th, 1995
• Event: Regular season game
• Sport: Baseball
• Where: Baltimore, MD; Camden yards
• Participants: Baltimore Orioles vs California Angels
• Outcome: The record for most consecutives games played was set by Lou Gherig in 1939 and had stood for 56 years. By the time Gherig finished he had appeared in a grand total of 2030 consecutive games. It seemed the record was unbreakable however until Orioles shortstop, Cal Ripken Jr, surpassed it at Camden Yards on Sept 6th of 1995. During the game he went on to hit a home-run, and after 6 innings he stopped to take a recognition for his accomplishment. It was one of the most watched baseball games in TV history. Ripken continued the streak for 4 more years, until 1998 when he set the new record at 2632 straight games. It is a record that is considered one of the most unobtainable in the sport of baseball. 
• How I witnessed it: I remember I was a huge fan of baseball in my kid years, and witnessed this live on our box TV at Park Ave. I also remember the next day at St. Johns, Fr. Derrick mentioned this incredible accomplishment in his sermon. 

35. Patriots Interception in Super Bowl

• When: Feb 1st, 2015
• Event: Super Bowl 49
• Sport: Football
• Where: Glendale, AZ; University of Phoenix Stadium
• Participants: New England Patriots vs Seattle Seahawks; Malcolm Butler
• Outcome: It is the most recent moment on this list, and regarded as one of the worse play calls in football history. With only a few minutes left in the 4th quarter, New England was up 28-24 however Seattle was in the driver's seat. After a remarkable 33 yard catch by Jermaine Kearse, the Seahawks were on the 5 yard line with a minute to go. At that point it seemed quite obvious that they would just use their power running back Marshawn Lynch to power in for the game winning touchdown. However with 26 seconds to go Seahawks headcoach, Pete Carroll, called a pass play instead of run, which was intercepted by Malcolm Butler. The Patriots would go on to win the game, and their 4th Superbowl. While the play could be seen as a heroic interception by cornerback Malcolm Butler, it is more regarded as one of the most devastating losses and worse play calls in football history.
• How I witnessed it: I was watching this game at my condo, and was devastated by the playcall since I was pulling for the Seahawks. 

34. Paavo Nurmi's 5 gold medals at Paris 1924

• When: August 1924 
• Event: 1924 Summer Olympics
• Sport: Track and Field
• Participants: Paavo Nurmi representing Finland
• Outcome: He was one of the greatest distance runners of his time, and first made his mark at the 1920 Antwerp Olympics by winning 3 gold medals and a silver. In 1924 he took his success a step further by achieving something no one had done before; winning 5 gold medals in a single games. He won in the 1500m, 5000m, Individual cross country, team cross country, and 3000m team. At the following 1928 Olympics in Amsterdam, he won 2 more gold medals and a silver, to bring his final overall tally to 12 Olympic medals. His achievement of 5 gold medals at a single game has yet to be broken in the sport of Track and Field. He remains the most decorated Track and Field Olympian of all time.  

33. Shot heard Round the World (Giants win the Pennant)

• When: October 3rd, 1951
• Event: National League Championship Series
• Sport: Baseball
• Where: New York City, Polo Grounds
• Participants: New York Giants vs Brooklyn Dodgers
• Outcome: It is perhaps one of the most famous moments in baseball for various reasons. The New York Giants and Brooklyn Dodgers had finished their season at the top tied with the same record. Thus a 3-game playoff game was needed, (this was before the wildcard, divisional, and championship playoff structure was put into place). What was even more fitting about this series was the inner city rivarly between the two teams. After splitting the series a game a piece, it came down to the 3rd game at Polo Grounds. In the bottom of the 9th, the Dodgers were winning 4-2, when Bobby Thompson, hit a three run walk-off homerun to win the game. The crowd went wild including and brought about one of the most famous radio calls in history by Russ Hodge screaming "The Giants Win the Pennant!". Although the Giants would go on to lose the World Series to the Yankees, it remains a classic moment at the Polo Grounds and the sport of baseball.  

32. Duke's buzzard winning shot to beat Kentucky (The Shot)

• When: March 28th, 1992
• Event: NCAA Basketball Tournament; Quarter Finals
• Sport: Basketball
• Where: Philadelphia, PA; The Spectrum
• Participants: Duke vs Kentucky; Grant Hill, Christian Laettner 
• Outcome: It was the east regional final, the quarter-finals, that would determine the final four. The game went into overtime, and the final few minutes favored Kentucky. With 2 seconds to go, Duke was down 103-102, and had one miraculous chance to win it. It was like a hail-mary as Grant Hill launched the ball acorss court, to the hands of Christian Laettner, who shot a quick jumper to sink the bucket as time expired. Duke went on to win the quarter-final and eventually their 2nd championship against Michigan thanks to Laettner's game winning shot. It's often considered the greatest NCAA tournament games of all time. 

31. The Rumble in the Jungle

• When: Oct 29th, 1974
• Event: World Heavyweight Championship
• Sport: Boxing
• Where: Kinshasa, Zaire; 20th of May Stadium
• Participants: Muhammad Ali vs George Foreman
• Outcome: The event was organized by Don King which pitted the undefeated champion George Foreman against the former champion Muhammad Ali. Foreman was clearly the favorite as a young 25 year old hot-shot in his prime facing a much older and worn Ali. The stadium in Congo filled over 60,000 to watch these two boxing giants face off. The night was the stuff of legend as Ali once again rose to greatness. He was able to hang with Foreman and by the eight roung he delivered Foreman the knock-out. Ali was once again the world heavy weight champion and the greatest boxer of all time. 

30. Arjen Robben's game winning goal against Dortumund UCL

• When: May 26th, 2013
• Event: UEFA Champions League Final
• Sport: Soccer
• Where: London, England; Wembley Stadium
• Participants: Borussia Dortmund vs Bayern Munich; Arjen Robben
• Outcome: After a heartbreaking defeat in the previous UEFA final, Bayern Munich was more determined then ever to win this championship. That year they made it and were pinned against their fellow German rivals, Borussia Dortmund. It was the first all German final in European Cup history. The game was as thrilling as the year before, with Bayern taking the lead in the 60th minute thanks to a goal from Mario Mandukic. Just 8 minutes later, Ilkay Gundogan was able to equalize for Dortmund with a penalty shot. As the game came to it's final minutes it appeared extra time was once again approaching. However in the 88th minute Bayern had it's golden opportunity when Robben dribbled pass the defense and slipped one by the keeper. The celebration was sheer jubilation for Robben, his teammates, and the fans of Bayern Munich. After a miserable streak of 3 defeats in the UEFA final, they had finally won their 5th championship.  

29. Mark McWire/Sammy Sosa homerun race

• When: Sept 8th, 1998
• Event: Regular Season
• Sport: Baseball
• Where: St. Louis, MO; 
• Participants: Mark McGwire and Sammy Sosa
• Outcome: It was a homerun race unlike anything before in Major League Baseball. It began mid-season with three at the top of the statistic table on pace to break Roger Maris's mark of 61. There was Mark McGwire of the St. Louis Cardinals, Sammy Sosa of the Chicago Cubs, and Ken Griffey of the Seattle Mariners. However past the midway All Star mark, it was down to just McGwire and Sosa going back and forth on home-runs. McGwire broke the record 1st, against Cubs pitcher Steve Traschel, of which he was fittingly embraced by his friend Sosa. Sosa would later go on to break the record however was always trailing McGwire in the race. Sosa broke the 61 mark on Sept 13th and finished the season at 66 homerunes. While McGwire finished the season at a new record of 70 homeruns. The record only lasted for 3 years until Barry Bonds broke set it at 73 in 2001. Unfortunately all three of these home-run hitters became associated with steroid use, and many fans will speculate the legitimacy of these records. Nonetheless I'll never forget that baseball season of 1998, following it with my friends in jr. high, which re-ignited my passion for baseball.  
• How I witnessed it: I remember I was in 6th grade as this homerun race had reignited my interest in baseball. I also remember as a joke there were some classmates who were having a fart race in contrast to Sosa and McGwires race. 

28. Bob Beamon breaks long jump record

• When: Oct 18th, 1968
• Event: 1968 Summer Olympics in Mexico
• Sport: Track and Field
• Where: Mexico City, Mexico; Estadio Olympico Universitario
• Participants: Bob Beamon representing USA
• Outcome: It was one of the most significant performances at the 1968 Summer Olympics, because of it's sheer amazement. Bob Beamon shattered the world record by almost 2 feet, with an incredible jump of 29 ft 2 and a half inches. The crowd watched in awe, as he was overcome with emotion at winning the gold medal and shattering the world record. This record would stand for over 20 years, until it was later broken by Mike Powell in 1991. 

27. Miracle on Ice; Soviet Union vs USA

• When: Feb 22nd, 1980
• Event: 1980 Winter Olympics, Lake Placid
• Sport: Hockey
• Where: Lake Placid, NY
• Participants: Team USA vs Team Russia
• Outcome: It was a medal round of the ice hockey tournament in the Olympics. The match had the mighty Russians, who had won the gold medal the past 6 times, facing an amateur team of USA college players. The odds were heavily in the Russians favor, however thanks to the coaching of Herb Brooks and his courageous team of players, they went on to upset the Russians, 3-4, in a very competitive game of hockey. Afterwards the US went on to win the gold medal against Finland.  

26. NC State Upset

• When: March 2nd, 1983
• Event: NCAA Mens Basketball Championship Final
• Sport: College Basketball
• Where: Albuquerque, NM; The Pit
• Participants: NC State Wolfpack vs Houston Cougars; Lorenzo Charles, Derreck Whittenburg
• Outcome: It was the final game of the NCAA 1983 basketball tournament between NC State, coached by Jim Valvano, and the favorites Houston coached by Guy Lewis. The game's famous moment came in the closing seconds tied at 52. NC State point guard, Derreck Whittenburg launched a ball from half court to the hands of Lorenzo Charles who slammed it in to take the lead and win the game. Afterwards Valvano's reaction made the moment all the more iconic, as he hysterically ran around the court looking for someone to celebrate with.  

25. Mark Spitz win's 7 gold medals in Swimming

• When: August 1972
• Event: 1972 Summer Olympics in Munich
• Sport: Swimming
• Where: Munich, GA
• Participants: Mark Spitz representing USA
• Outcome: During the infamous Munich Olympics, Spitz brought one of the most inspiring moments of the event. He captured 7 gold medals in the 7 events he competed in; the 100m freestyle, 200m freestyle, 100m butterfly, 200m butterfly, 4x100m relay freestyle, 4x200m relay freestyle, and 4x100 medley relay. To make matters more amazing was that he set a world record in each event. He was the first athlete to acheive 7 gold medals in a single event, and held the record until Michael Phelps broke it in Beijing. It was also quite fitting that he was a Jewish champion in the midst of the terrible Massacre. 

24. Diego Maradona's Goal of the Century

• When: June 22nd, 1986
• Event: 1986 FIFA World Cup Semi-Final
• Sport: Soccer
• Where: Mexico City, Mexico; Estadio Azteca
• Participants: Diego Maradona; England vs Argentina
• Outcome: It was the Semi-Final game of the 1986 World Cup in Mexico, with England facing Argentina. There was significant political tension between the two countries since the Falkland Wars was just four years prior. The game is however best remembered for the performance of superstar Diego Maradona who provided two of the most memorable moments in soccer history. The first was his infamous Hand of God where he scored a goal by punching it in with his fist. To the refs and many fans it appeared he scored by heading it in, however he later admitted that it was indeed his hand. The 2nd goal however redeemed this dispute, where he scored quite possibly one of the greatest goals in soccer history. He dribbled the ball from midfield past 5 English defenders as well as the goalkeeper, to score the game winner. This remarkable goal became known as the Goal of the Century. After this game Argentina would go on to win the world cup final against Germany, and Maradona's legacy was born. 

23. Wilt Chamberlain scores 100 points in a game

• When: March 2nd, 1962
• Event: Regular Season NBA Game
• Sport: Basketball
• Where: Hershey, PA; Hershey Sports Arena
• Participants: New York Knicks vs Philadelphia Warriors; Wilt Chamberlain
• Outcome: It was a regular season game during the founding years of the NBA. Wilt Chamberlain had already established himself as a superstar, averaging 50 points per game. However the NBA still did not have the media coverage and popularity that college basketball did. Nonetheless Wilt Chamberlain went on to score 100 points in the game, a feat that to this day no other player has even come close to. The only proof of Wilt's record breaking accomplishment is the famous photo of him holding the number 100. 

22. The Immaculate Reception by Pittsburgh Steelers

• When: December 23rd, 1972
• Event: AFC Divisional Playoff
• Sport: Football
• Where: Pittsburgh
• Participants: Oakland Raiders vs Pittsburgh Steelers
• Outcome: It is considered perhaps one of the most famous and controversial plays in NFL History. The Steelers were down 7-6, with 22 seconds, it was 4th and 10 and this would be their last chance to stay in the game. At which point Terry Bradshaw threw a pass to wide receiver, John Fuqua, which bounced off Raiders safety, Jack Tatum, and into the hands of James Franco. The ball was nearly at the ground when James Franco made the incredible catch. He was able to run the ball into the endzone as time expired. The Steelers went on to win the game 13-7. It became a controversial call because some argued that it hit the ground. It became the start of a Pittsburgh-Oakland rivalry yet also the start of the Pittsburgh dynasty. They went on to win the super bowl that year, and 3 more times that decade.  

21. Black Power Salute

• When: Oct 16th 1968
• Event: 1968 Summer Olympics in Mexico City
• Sport: Track and Field
• Where: Mexico City; Mexico; Estadio Olimpico Universitario 
• Participants: Tommie Smith and John Carlos representing USA
• Outcome: After Tomie Smith won gold, and his teammate John Carlos won bronze in the 200 meter dash, they decided to perform one of the most political statements in Olympic History. On the award podium, during the playing of the Star Spangled Banner, the two athletes bowed down their heads and held up their fists high while wearing black gloves. It was considered a protest for race equality as well as human equality. While the initial public reaction was disdain, it is remembered today as one of the most historic moments in Olympic history. 

20. Roger Maris reaches 61 home runs

• When: Oct 1st, 1961
• Event: Regular season game
• Sport: Baseball
• Where: New York City, NY; Yankee Stadium
• Participants: New York Yankees vs Boston Red Sox; Roger Maris
• Outcome: It was the last game of the season, in front of over 23,000 fans at Yankee Stadium. Roger Maris had dealt with the stress the entire season of being the villian who would break the legendary Babe Ruth's 34 year old record of 60 homeruns set in 1927.  Furthermore many fans complained that there were more games in a regular season then when Ruth had set the mark in 1927. Nonetheless Maris went on to break the record which would last for another 37 years until Mark MgWire broke it in 1998.  

19. Iniesta's goal against Holland in World Cup 2010

• When: July 11th, 2010
• Event: FIFA World Cup
• Sport: Soccer
• Where: Johannesburg, South Africa; Soccer City Stadium
• Participants: Spain vs Holland; Andres Iniesta
• Outcome: It was a very tight match between Spain and Holland for the greatest of soccer trophies. Neither side had ever won a World Cup trophy before, yet both sides had always had a formidable team. This game had it's many moments, and went into extra time. In the 116th minute of extra time, La Furia Roja, finally had their breakthru thanks to Andres Iniesta. He found himself to be at the right place at the right time, to strike home the wining volley. The celebration was sheer jubilation as the Spanish knew they were minutes away from winning their first ever world cup. 
• How I witnessed it: I remember watching this game at my parents house in Kekionga. As a neutral fan I was amazed at the importance of the goal. 

18. The Catch; 49ers beat Cowboys

• When: Jan 10th, 1982
• Event: NFC Conference Championship
• Sport: Football 
• Where: San Fransisco, CA; Candlestick Park
• Participants: Dallas Cowboys vs San Fransico 49ers; Joe Montana, Dwight Clark
• Outcome: In the final minutes of the 4th quarter, Joe Montana had lead his team on the final drive. The score was 27-21 and Dallas had the lead. With 58 seconds to go, on the 6 yard line, Joe Montana was pushed outside the pocket, and tossed up a high miracle for someone to grab. Out of nowhere the tall tight end Dwight Clark, leaped to pull the ball into his cusp, and score the game winning touchdown. The 49ers would go on to win Super Bowl XVI against the Bengals. This play has become one of the most memorable in football history.   

17. Joe Dimaggio's 56 game hit streak

• When: July 17th, 1941
• Event: Regular Season Game
• Sport: Baseball
• Where: Cleveland, OH
• Participants: Joe Dimaggio
• Outcome: In the 1941 season, the New York Yankees were on a tear, lead by their strong hitters of Lou Gherig and Joe Dimaggio. Dimaggio was on course to break the hitting streak record, which means that the batter gets at least one base hit in a consecutive game. On July 2nd he broke the mark of 44 set by Willie Keeler in 1897. He continued the streak until July 17th at Cleveland, where he did not get a base hit. The record was thus set at 56, and to this day it remains one of the most unbreakable records in baseball. The nation was inspired by Dimaggio's record breaking streak and he thus got the nickname Joltin Joe. 

16. The Play; Stanford vs Cal

• When: Nov 20, 1982
• Event: Last game of Regular season game; major rivalry 
• Sport: College Football
• Where: Berkely, California; California Memorial Stadium
• Participants: Stanford Cardinals vs California Golden Bears
• Outcome: Stanford had just scored with 4 seconds to go, putting them ahead 20-19. However in the ensuing kickoff, the California special teams, began to lateral the ball back-and-forth in a last ditch effort to get to the end-zone. After 5 tosses they were miraculous able to get by Standford's defense and into the end-zone to win the game. What made this play even more memorable was that Stanford's band had begun to march onto the field, assuming they had won it. The radio commentary by Joe Starkey was also very memorable for his passionate call of the play. 

15. Pele leads Brazil to 3rd World Cup Final

• When: 21st June 1970
• Event: 1970 FIFA World Cup Final
• Sport: Soccer
• Where: Mexico City, Mexico; Azteca Stadium
• Participants: Pele; Brazil vs Italy
• Outcome: Pele had already helped Brazil win two world cups at the 1958 Cup in Sweden and the 1962 Cup in Chile, however his performance at the 1970 Cup in Mexico was argubably his best one. He scored the opening goal in the 18th minute off a leaping header, and his celebration became one of his most iconic photographs. He later had two assists to help his team soundly beat Italy 4-1. Brazil had gone on to win it's 3rd World Cup, much of which was thanks to the greatness of Pele. To this day he is considered the undisputed greatest soccer player of all time. 

14. NY Giants Helmet Catch in Super Bowl

• When: Feb 3rd, 2008
• Event: Super Bowl XLII
• Sport: Football
• Where: Glendale, AZ; University of Phoenix Stadium
• Participants: New York Giants vs New England Patriots; Eli Manning, David Tyree
• Outcome: In the final two minutes of the game, the New York Giants were down 14-10 and needed a touchdown to win. Eli Manning began one of the greatest drives in superbowl history, barely avoiding a game-ending interception. The next play was perhaps one of the greatest catches in Superbowl history. On 3rd down, Eli managed to escape an oncoming blitz, and hauled a 32 yard pass to receiver David Tyree who made a miraclous catch with the aid of his helmet, over defensive back Rodney Harrison. Four plays later, Eli threw the game winning touchdown to Plaxico Burress. This was an upset victory that brought a cruel end to the Patriots undefeated season.
• How I witnessed it:  I remember watching this game at my cousin Jenny's apartment in Chicago with her boyfriend Peter. I was very happy to see the Patriots lose.  

13. Ali beats Sonny Liston First Fight

• When: Feb 25th, 1964 
• Event: Boxing Heavyweight Championship
• Sport: Boxing
• Where: Miami Beach, FL; Convention Hall
• Participants: Muhammad Ali (Cassius Clay) vs Sonny Liston
• Outcome: Sonny Liston was the heavy weight champion of the world, and Cassius Clay was an up-and-comer after the title. They finally got their chance to face off in 1964 at the Convention Hall. After 6 rounds, Liston had had enough and Ali had won by technical knockout. At age 22, he became the youngest champion in boxing history. The fight was significant because it was Ali's 1st major championship. The following year he changed his name to Muhammad Ali, based on his belief in the Nation of Islam. He went on to face Liston again in 1965, to defend his title. This time the fight only lasted one round, and Ali famously knocked out him out with an anchor punch. 

12. First 4 minute Mile

• When: May 6th, 1954
• Event: Amateur Athletic Association vs Oxford
• Sport: Track and Field
• Where: Illfey Road, Oxford England; Oxford University
• Participants: Roger Bannister
• Outcome: It was believed that a sub four minute mile run was impossible, as the record stood at 4 minutes for the past ten years. However Oxford graduate and medical student, Roger Bannister, believed it could be done. On May 6th, at a track meet held at Oxford against the Amateur Athletic Association, Roger had his chance to break the record. With 3000 spectators at hand, and the help of pacers, he went on to run an incredible sub 4 minute mile, clocked at exactly 3.59.4. It was a new world record and he thus became the first person to run a sub 4 minute mile. What was most incredible about his achievement was that Roger was a full time medical student and not a professional athlete. 

11. Michael Jordan's 6th NBA Championship (The Last Shot)

• When: June 14th, 1998
• Event: Game 6 of NBA Finals
• Sport: Basketball
• Where: Salt Lake City, Utah; Delta Center
• Participants: Chicago Bulls vs Utah Jazz; Michael Jordan
• Outcome: As one of the all time greatest athletes to have lived, Michael Jordan had many incredible moments throughout his career. Yet there is one moment in particular that seals the envelope on his legacy. This was his game winning shot at Game 6 of the NBA Finals against the Utah Jazz. He scored a 3 pointer with only 5 seconds left, which would go on to be the game winner. This "Last Shot" brought Jordan his 6th and final NBA Championship. 
• How I witnessed it: I remember watching this at Park Ave on our box TV. 

10. Bill Mazeroski's world series walk-off

• When: October 13th, 1960
• Event: World Series
• Sport: Baseball
• Where: Pittsburg, PA; Forbes Field
• Participants: Bill Mazeroski; Pittsburgh Pirates vs New York Yankeess
• Outcome: It was a star-studded World Series featuring Dick Groat, Roberto Clemente, Yogi Berra, Bobby Shantz, Micky Mantle, Roger Marris, and Elston Howard. However the series is best remembered for one player in particular and that's Bill Mazeroski. This was due to his ultimate walk-off home-run during the 7th game at the bottom of the 9th. Mazeroski's home-run put the score at 10-9 and brought the Pittsburgh Pirates their 3rd Championship. 

9. Liverpool's comeback win in Champions League Final

• When: May 25th, 2005
• Event: UEFA Champions League Final
• Sport: Soccer
• Where: Istanbul, Turkey; Ataturk Olympic Stadium
• Participants: AC Milan vs Liverpool
• Outcome: It was one of the greatest comebacks in UEFA Finals history. AC Milan got off to a storming start in the 1st minute when legendary Italian defender, Paolo Maldini, scored off a free kick. Towards the end of the 1st half, Hernan Crespo went on to score two more goals for AC Milan putting them ahead 3-0. Liverpool Headcoach rafael Benitez must have given some speech in the locker room, because at halftime, Liverpool turned things around. They were lead by none other then their legendary captain, Steven Gerrard. In a matter of minutes Liverpool put together an incredible string of attacks. In the 54th minute Gerrard put Liverpool on the scoreboard with a header. A couple minutes later Vladimir Smicer sent a rocket of a shot past Milan goalkeeper Dida to make it 2-0. And in the 60th minute midfielder Xabi Alonso equalized for Liverpool with a PK shot, which was initially deflected by Dida, however Alonso put in the deflection. The game went into PK shootout of which Liverpool goalkeeper Dudek made several key saves, including the final stop on Shevchenko to win the game. Liverpool were European champions and had just achieved one of the greatest comebacks of all time. 

8. The Ice Bowl

• When: December 31st, 1967
• Event: 1967 NFL Conference Championship Game
• Sport: Football
• Where: Green Bay, WI; Lambeu Field
• Participants: Green Bay Packers vs Dallas Cowboys
• Outcome: It was a rematch of the previous conference championship game and matched two of the all time greatest coaches Tom Landry and Vince Lombardi. The game was one of the most exciting championship games in football yesterday. It was also most memorable for it's sub degree temperatures at -15 degree, and with a -40 degree windchill. Despite these freezing temperature nearly 50,000 fans stood in attendance to watch the game. It was a brutal battle as both teams were eager to play in the final game. When it appeared the Cowboys had it locked up, Bart Starr lead the Packers on one final drive. With 13 seconds left to go, Bart Starr pushed it thru the midel and into the end zone to win the game. The Packers would go to beat the Oakland Raiders and achieve their 2nd consecutive Super Bowl Championship. However it was this Ice Bowl victory that has perhaps become one of the most iconic games and images of Vince Lombardi's Green Bay Packers.  

7. Nadia's Perfect 10

• When: July 18th, 1976
• Event: 1976 Summer Olympics Montreal
• Sport: Gymnastics
• Where: Montreal
• Participants: Nadia Comaneci representing Romania
• Outcome: At the age of 14, she did the impossible on the uneven bars and scored a perfect 10. Her routine was flawless, percise, and executed with relative ease and fluid motion. The score showed 1.00 and soon it was explained that the scoreboard wasn't built to show 4 digits. The crowd gave her the thunderous applaud she diserved. She went on to win 3 gold medals, a silver, and a bronze at Montreal. She later won 2 more golds and silvers at the Moscow Olympics. Her perfect 10 performance as well as multiple medals has solidified her legacy as the greatest gymnast of all time. 

6. Jackie Robinson becomes 1st black player in MLB

• When: April 15th, 1947
• Event: Regular Season Game
• Sport: Baesball
• Where: Brooklyn, NY; Ebbets Field
• Participants: Jackie Robinson; Brooklyn Dodgers vs Boston Braves
• Outcome: He was signed by the Brooklyn Dodgers only 6 days before the start of the season. He had shown great skill in the minor and negro leagues. Dodger's owner Branch Rickey saw the business opportunity as well as his own idealism, to break the color barrier and sign Robinson. Of course Robinson knew he would have to face all sorts of discrimination and racism among his teammates and fans, however Rickey asked him not to react. The courage Robinson displayed to perform as well as be professional in the midst of such hate is an incredible sports moment. He went on to open the door for the thousands of professional black baseball players that followed. Robinson also achieved numerous recognition such as rookie of the year in 1947, 6 time all-star, and helped his team win the World Series in 1955. 

5. Manchester United's comeback win against Bayern Munich

• When: May 26th, 1999
• Event: UEFA Champions League Final
• Sport: Soccer
• Where: Barcelona, Spain; Camp Nou
• Participants: Manchester United vs Bayern Munich; Teddy Sheringham and Ole Gunnar Solskjaer
• Outcome: It was the highly contested European Champions League final between the giant clubs of Manchester United and Bayern Munich. Each side had respectively won their league cup as well league title. This trophy would grant them the accomplish of achieving the treble, one of Europe's most regarded soccer achievements. Bayern Munch went on to take an early lead in the 6th minute thanks to Mario Basler. They were able to hang on to that 1-0 lead almost the entire game until stoppage time. At which point in stoppage time, Manchester United was able to score the equalizer thanks to Teddy Sheringham. A minute later Ole Solskjaer went on to score the game winning goal. The crowd erupted into a tremendous roar at the incredible finish they just witnessed. Manchester United went on to win the UEFA Championship as well the Treble in one of the most dramatic final few minutes in European history. 

4. Hank Aaron breaks the all time homerun record

• When: April 8th, 1974
• Event: Regular Season game
• Sport: Baseball
• Where: Atlanta, GA
• Participants: Hank Aaron; Atlanta Braves vs Cincinnati Reds
• Outcome: At the start of the baseball season, Hank Aaron was on pace to break Babe Ruth's all time home-run record early on. It was carefully managed that he performed this feat at home in front of the Atlanta Braves fans. The pitcher was Al Downing and it was in the 4th inning when Hank made connection sending the ball into out of the park. On his run around the bases two college students ran along side him to partake in the moment. Hank Aaron would finish at 755 career homeruns before he retired. This record lasted from 1974 until 2007 when Barry Bonds surpassed him. Aaron also broke many other records, and this moment stamped his legacy as one of the greatest baseball players of all time.

3. Michael Phelps wins 8 golds in Beijing

• When: August 2008
• Event: Summer Olympics in Beijing
• Sport: Swimming
• Where: Beijing, China
• Participants: Michael Phelps representing team USA
• Outcome: After a strong performance in the 2004 Greece Olympics, winning 6 gold and 2 bronze medals, Michael Phelps had become a household name in the sport of swimming. So the anticipation that he might surpass Mark Spitz's record of 7 gold medals set in 1972 was very high. Never had there been so much attention and publicity on a swimmer like this before. He performed masterfully and won gold in each of his 8 events; the 100m butterfly, 200m butterfly, 200m freestyle, 200m medley, 400m medley, 4x100m freestyle, 4x200m freestyle, 4x100m medley. Not only did he win gold in each of these events, he set world records in all but one of which he still set an Olympic record in the 100m butterfly. This thus became one of the most dominant performances by an athlete at a single event of the Olympic games. 
• How I witnessed it: I remember watching Phelp's dominant performance at my apartment in Chicago. 

2. Jesse Owens at the Berlin Olympics

• When: August 1936
• Event: 1936 Summer Olympics
• Sport: Track and Field
• Where: Berlin, Germany; Olympiastadion
• Participants: Jesse Owens representing USA national team
• Outcome: The 1936 Olympics in Berlin, Germany was Hitler's chance to demonstrate his proud Nazi government and his belief of Aryan white dominance. However American track superstar Jesse Owens had different plans in mind. Owens had recently become a track superstar in 1935 at the Big Ten Track Championship. Representing Ohio State University he increidbly set three world records in under 45 minutes; in the 100m, 200m, and long jump. However his performance the following year at the Olympics was just as incredible. He went on to win four gold medals in the 100m, 200m. 4x100 meter relay, and the long jump. It was not only his athletic performance yet his courage to dominate in such a political and racial environment that makes this one of the greatest moments in sports history.  

1. Sergio Aguero's goal to win Man City the English Title

• When: May 17th, 2012
• Event: Regular Season Match vs QPR
• Sport: Soccer
• Where: Manchester; Ethiad Stadium
• Participants: Manchester City vs QPR; Sergio Aguero
• Outcome: It was the final game of the season and Manchester City was tied at the top with Manchester United at 86 pts a piece. However Man City had the adv in goal differential and all they needed was the same performance or better than Man United. That day both teams played at the same time; Man United played in Sunderland while Man City hosted QPR. To the dismay of the Man City fans, QPR were ahead at stoppage time 2-1, and Man United had beaten Sunderland. It appeared Man City would lose and Man United would go on to win yet another title. However the miraclous happened in stoppage time, first when Edin Dzeko scored in the 92nd minute to equalize with QPR. Shortly after, in the final few seconds of stoppage time, Sergio Aguero scored the game winning goal, which would become the title winning goal for Manchester City. The stadium of Ethiad and fans everywhere erupted in one of the greatest bursts jubilation a sporting event has ever seen. The enormity of this moment is due to the unlikelihood of it's circumstances; going into the final game of the season tied at the top of the table with Man United, as well as the most glorious of comebacks. Which is why this single moment is in my opinion one of the greatest moments in sports history.