OT -- Whose Sports Death Would Affect Us?
by Worf on Jul 1, 2009 2:05 PM CDT
163 comments
In the wake of the media frenzy surrounding Michael Jackson's death, who in the sports world -- I mean the entire sports world, not just our little corner of it -- would send the nation and even the world into a tizzy like this?
If just about any prime of life athlete dropped dead tomorrow, it would be newsworthy, if only for the "Oh man, what a waste" mentality. And it won't be a real shock when someone like Bob Feller dies.
For the current athletes, imagine them dying at age 50. Would they still be relevant enough to take us over like this? For the ones already over 50, imagine them dying tomorrow. Would they still be relevant enough?
My choices are these:
Baseball -- Obviously, when Mickey Morandini dies, it'll affect us, but to the outside world, it'll mean very little. I can think of no Cubs on this list. Santo will take over Cubdom for an entire season, but outside of that, he'll be a "Huh, too bad" moment.
* A-Rod
* Jeter
* Pete Rose
Football --
* Jim Brown
* Tom Brady
* Peyton Manning
Basketball
* Jordan
* LeBron/Kobe
* Shaq
* Magic
* Barkley
Other sports
* Gretsky (Maybe)
* Ali
* Tiger
That's really all I have. Who have you got?
This is a FanPost and does not necessarily reflect the views of SB Nation or Al Yellon, managing editor (unless it's a FanPost posted by Al). FanPost opinions are valued expressions of opinion by passionate and knowledgeable baseball fans.
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Tiger
He’ll likely still be very relevant at 50 years old.
"Ask Dad. He'll know. And on the off chance he doesn't, he'll make something up"
by StevenABQ on Jul 1, 2009 2:15 PM CDT reply actions 0 recs
I think MJ and Tiger
would be “wordly” in the reactions.
The others, not so much.
by socalbob on Jul 1, 2009 2:17 PM CDT reply actions 0 recs
I think Ali
will still pull quite a crowd
There is no such thing as an ugly female breast
by Worf on Jul 1, 2009 2:21 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
maybe with the
over 30 crowd. Not so much with the younger generation. Boxing is no longer relevant.
by socalbob on Jul 1, 2009 2:29 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
I don't know...
if you ask most under 30 people, I think they’d recognize his greatness and nothing else. Only positive things have been published about Ali in the last 20 years.
There may, however, be a sampling of much older people who are knowledgeable about Ali and still hold a grudge against him. He dodged the war and was actually not that popular in his prime.
Speaking as an under 30 guy, I never even realized the controversy surrounding Ali in his heyday. I did a report on him while in college and was surprised to find that he had very few supporters at the peak of his career (IIRC, a biography of him estimated that only 20-30% of the nation supported Ali at the time).
Free Ronny Cedeno
by Kansas25 on Jul 1, 2009 3:42 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
okay
I could buy into that.
I think for the younger crowd he is more known for lighting the Olympic flame than anything else. I, personally, do not believe he is a transcedant figure—i.e. MJ, Tiger, Elvis, and now Michael Jackson. I could be worng though.
by socalbob on Jul 1, 2009 5:36 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Ernie Banks, I think, would get some recognition outside of Chicago when he dies.
"You can observe a lot just by watching." ~ Yogi Berra
by Al on Jul 1, 2009 2:19 PM CDT reply actions 0 recs
Ron Santo, too.
Man, I feel creepy just talking about this.
I've committed to tweeting about the Cubs for the rest of the season. (Does that sound as ridiculous as I think it does?) Anyway, if you're on Twitter, you can follow me here.
by dat cubfan daver on Jul 1, 2009 2:23 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Harry Caray was a blip on the world stage when he died
If anything, Sosa will cause more of a ripple than Banks or Santo
There is no such thing as an ugly female breast
by Worf on Jul 1, 2009 2:23 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Perhaps.
But Caray was also immortalized to a certain extent by Will Farrell on SNL, so his legacy went beyond just sports.
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by dat cubfan daver on Jul 1, 2009 2:26 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Yosh Kawano
"We got some pretty good chemistry here. We got some toughness, and it's starting to show." - Lou Pinella
by Clutche on Jul 1, 2009 3:15 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
None
Sports figures don’t have the impact like someone like Jackson. Tiger would be the closest.
My wife and I were discussing this. The “biggest” death before Jackson was probably John Lennon and before that Elvis.
by rlpete on Jul 1, 2009 2:20 PM CDT reply actions 0 recs
Princess Diana
took over for a while
There is no such thing as an ugly female breast
by Worf on Jul 1, 2009 2:21 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Eh, I dunno, I think Michael Jordan's death would at least approach Jacko's passing.
I've committed to tweeting about the Cubs for the rest of the season. (Does that sound as ridiculous as I think it does?) Anyway, if you're on Twitter, you can follow me here.
by dat cubfan daver on Jul 1, 2009 2:22 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
probably
because he was so well known even outside the sport. He’s the only guy to get me to watch pro basketball.
Who was the race-car driver who died? His son now races?
I'm a Cubs FANATIC. They are my team, through thick and thin. When they play over their heads, and when they play under the gutter. When they win the division, and then get swept in the division series. When they get no-hitters and when they blow no-hitters. And some day, when they go all the way and get those rings. This is the kind of fan I am.
by drewishdrewid on Jul 1, 2009 2:23 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Dale Earnhardt
Say this much for big league baseball - it is beyond question the greatest conversation piece ever invented in America. ~Bruce Catton
by KaliCub on Jul 1, 2009 2:24 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Earnhardt
That absolutely crushed the gearheads, but not really anyone else.
There is no such thing as an ugly female breast
by Worf on Jul 1, 2009 2:24 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
well,
it was all over the news. Probably helped that it happened while he was racing.
I'm a Cubs FANATIC. They are my team, through thick and thin. When they play over their heads, and when they play under the gutter. When they win the division, and then get swept in the division series. When they get no-hitters and when they blow no-hitters. And some day, when they go all the way and get those rings. This is the kind of fan I am.
by drewishdrewid on Jul 1, 2009 2:32 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
It would be all over the news if Joe Schmo was killed in an accident
I’m talking weeks of coverage beyond Car & Driver.
There is no such thing as an ugly female breast
by Worf on Jul 1, 2009 2:34 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Earndhardt
WAS all over the news. Not for weeks and weeks, I guess, but a solid week.
I'm a Cubs FANATIC. They are my team, through thick and thin. When they play over their heads, and when they play under the gutter. When they win the division, and then get swept in the division series. When they get no-hitters and when they blow no-hitters. And some day, when they go all the way and get those rings. This is the kind of fan I am.
by drewishdrewid on Jul 1, 2009 2:35 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
I think Dale Earnhardt.
How do I know that?
I've committed to tweeting about the Cubs for the rest of the season. (Does that sound as ridiculous as I think it does?) Anyway, if you're on Twitter, you can follow me here.
by dat cubfan daver on Jul 1, 2009 2:24 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
it was on the news.
I'm a Cubs FANATIC. They are my team, through thick and thin. When they play over their heads, and when they play under the gutter. When they win the division, and then get swept in the division series. When they get no-hitters and when they blow no-hitters. And some day, when they go all the way and get those rings. This is the kind of fan I am.
by drewishdrewid on Jul 1, 2009 2:32 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Oh. Yeah, that would explain it.
I just mean I follow auto racing about as closely as I follow professional rugby.
I've committed to tweeting about the Cubs for the rest of the season. (Does that sound as ridiculous as I think it does?) Anyway, if you're on Twitter, you can follow me here.
by dat cubfan daver on Jul 1, 2009 2:44 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Difference being...
… Jordan is no longer an active athlete, and has a low profile now.
What CURRENT athlete would create the most news? Probably Tiger.
"You can observe a lot just by watching." ~ Yogi Berra
by Al on Jul 1, 2009 2:29 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Jackson hadn't performed in years when he died
Active or retired really isn’t the issue. Pete Rose will generate more coverage than 99 percent of today’s players.
Tiger would by far be the one.
There is no such thing as an ugly female breast
by Worf on Jul 1, 2009 2:32 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Jackson
was mounting a come-back. His profile was elevated already.
I'm a Cubs FANATIC. They are my team, through thick and thin. When they play over their heads, and when they play under the gutter. When they win the division, and then get swept in the division series. When they get no-hitters and when they blow no-hitters. And some day, when they go all the way and get those rings. This is the kind of fan I am.
by drewishdrewid on Jul 1, 2009 2:33 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
The first I heard of his comeback
was the day he died.
There is no such thing as an ugly female breast
by Worf on Jul 1, 2009 2:34 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
weren't you
on honeymoon? :P It had been low rumblings. When he signed the deal for the Vegas gig, it hit the morning shows.
How often do you watch entertainment tonight?
I'm a Cubs FANATIC. They are my team, through thick and thin. When they play over their heads, and when they play under the gutter. When they win the division, and then get swept in the division series. When they get no-hitters and when they blow no-hitters. And some day, when they go all the way and get those rings. This is the kind of fan I am.
by drewishdrewid on Jul 1, 2009 2:34 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Very rarely
The wife watches sometimes and I’ll hear stuff from the other room.
There is no such thing as an ugly female breast
by Worf on Jul 1, 2009 2:35 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
there ya go.
I'm a Cubs FANATIC. They are my team, through thick and thin. When they play over their heads, and when they play under the gutter. When they win the division, and then get swept in the division series. When they get no-hitters and when they blow no-hitters. And some day, when they go all the way and get those rings. This is the kind of fan I am.
by drewishdrewid on Jul 1, 2009 2:36 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
I'm guess that, when the autopsy results come back...
…that won’t be the only thing that was elevated.
I've committed to tweeting about the Cubs for the rest of the season. (Does that sound as ridiculous as I think it does?) Anyway, if you're on Twitter, you can follow me here.
by dat cubfan daver on Jul 1, 2009 2:44 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
*guessing
I've committed to tweeting about the Cubs for the rest of the season. (Does that sound as ridiculous as I think it does?) Anyway, if you're on Twitter, you can follow me here.
by dat cubfan daver on Jul 1, 2009 2:45 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
they already have
I thought, and there’s still no clear cause of death.
I'm a Cubs FANATIC. They are my team, through thick and thin. When they play over their heads, and when they play under the gutter. When they win the division, and then get swept in the division series. When they get no-hitters and when they blow no-hitters. And some day, when they go all the way and get those rings. This is the kind of fan I am.
by drewishdrewid on Jul 1, 2009 2:52 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
I thought it took several weeks to get back the full results.
I've committed to tweeting about the Cubs for the rest of the season. (Does that sound as ridiculous as I think it does?) Anyway, if you're on Twitter, you can follow me here.
by dat cubfan daver on Jul 1, 2009 2:54 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
maybe
I'm a Cubs FANATIC. They are my team, through thick and thin. When they play over their heads, and when they play under the gutter. When they win the division, and then get swept in the division series. When they get no-hitters and when they blow no-hitters. And some day, when they go all the way and get those rings. This is the kind of fan I am.
by drewishdrewid on Jul 1, 2009 2:55 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
I'm thinking
40 Vikes and a shot of Diprivan, would do it. Hell, thats enough to stop a wounded Cape Buffalo at full gallop.
"Ask Dad. He'll know. And on the off chance he doesn't, he'll make something up"
by StevenABQ on Jul 1, 2009 3:28 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Just another Friday night in my world.
I've committed to tweeting about the Cubs for the rest of the season. (Does that sound as ridiculous as I think it does?) Anyway, if you're on Twitter, you can follow me here.
by dat cubfan daver on Jul 1, 2009 3:33 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Heh
But seriously, if the talk of the sheer quantity of meds he was taking is even remotely true, I think there is not likely to be too many rock stars that could hold a handle to his excess. I mean geez when it came to getting loaded Jackson was a badass – completely in the Elvis category.
"Ask Dad. He'll know. And on the off chance he doesn't, he'll make something up"
by StevenABQ on Jul 1, 2009 3:36 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Oh, I agree.
His death really isn’t that surprising.
I've committed to tweeting about the Cubs for the rest of the season. (Does that sound as ridiculous as I think it does?) Anyway, if you're on Twitter, you can follow me here.
by dat cubfan daver on Jul 2, 2009 9:28 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Disagree, not even close
People define their generation with performers like Elvis, Lennon and Jackson. People outside of Chicago won’t be impacted by Jordan. Would you be impacted that much when Larry Bird or Magic Johnson dies?
Did you see the clip of the impromptu assembly of hundreds of people in a London street singing Thriller?
by rlpete on Jul 1, 2009 2:36 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
that much?
no. Will I take note? Sure.
I'm a Cubs FANATIC. They are my team, through thick and thin. When they play over their heads, and when they play under the gutter. When they win the division, and then get swept in the division series. When they get no-hitters and when they blow no-hitters. And some day, when they go all the way and get those rings. This is the kind of fan I am.
by drewishdrewid on Jul 1, 2009 2:37 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
That is my point
Chicagoans and North Carolinians would be impacted by Jordan but there is no way a sport star would approach Jackson.
by rlpete on Jul 1, 2009 2:41 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
I think Jordan has more impact than you think
Jordan defined an athletic generation. He was the idol of most of today’s players and influenced their games.
From a social standpoint, he was the first black athlete to really cross over. Magic did to a degree, but he had to have a white guy helping him along.
There is no such thing as an ugly female breast
by Worf on Jul 1, 2009 2:39 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Jordan was everywhere
He’s the Nike logo. the McDonald’s commercials with him and Bird are classics. He was in Space Jam.
by Arbusto on Jul 1, 2009 2:41 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Kobe, Lebron, etc...
They modeled their games after him. His shoe empire still reins today throughout the world.
Someday we'll go all the way...
by CubsBullsBears on Jul 1, 2009 2:42 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Are you kidding??
Jordan is well known worldwide….he would be sorely missed if he were to pass away too soon.
by Cubs and Hawks fan on Jul 1, 2009 2:40 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
I'm not saying he won't be missed
I’m saying it won’t be on the scale of Jackson. Also note the question assumes he reaches 50. That is still years off and many more years out of the public spotlight.
by rlpete on Jul 1, 2009 2:43 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
He's 46 now..
I’d say either his or Tiger’s death would affect us more than any other athlete right now.
by Cubs and Hawks fan on Jul 1, 2009 2:44 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
There are kids in the Congo...
And rural China that wear Jordans and sport Chicago Bulls #23 jersey’s to this day. His impact was global.
Someday we'll go all the way...
by CubsBullsBears on Jul 1, 2009 2:45 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Impact and popularity
I’m not arguing. That is different from what you see with Jackson. Also consider the other 50%. Do you really think you will see women around the world crying in the streets for Jordan?
by rlpete on Jul 1, 2009 6:16 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Fortunately, I didn't see that clip, no.
But Michael Jordan was an international superstar – instantly recognizable around the world.
I've committed to tweeting about the Cubs for the rest of the season. (Does that sound as ridiculous as I think it does?) Anyway, if you're on Twitter, you can follow me here.
by dat cubfan daver on Jul 1, 2009 2:46 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
When I traveled across Europe...
I visited different cities and towns, and when people found out I was from Chicago, their first response was always… “Michael Jordan!”
Someday we'll go all the way...
by CubsBullsBears on Jul 1, 2009 2:48 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Hank Aaron
right? If Randy Johnson died at 50 — wait, isn’t he OVER 50? :P
I'm a Cubs FANATIC. They are my team, through thick and thin. When they play over their heads, and when they play under the gutter. When they win the division, and then get swept in the division series. When they get no-hitters and when they blow no-hitters. And some day, when they go all the way and get those rings. This is the kind of fan I am.
by drewishdrewid on Jul 1, 2009 2:24 PM CDT reply actions 0 recs
I think he's still a couple years younger than Jose Contreras.
I've committed to tweeting about the Cubs for the rest of the season. (Does that sound as ridiculous as I think it does?) Anyway, if you're on Twitter, you can follow me here.
by dat cubfan daver on Jul 1, 2009 2:25 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Aaron might
But if I had to guess, I’d say no. Ruth still tops all of them. 15 guys could someday get 715 and Ruth will still outshine them all.
There is no such thing as an ugly female breast
by Worf on Jul 1, 2009 2:25 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Barry Bonds
Say this much for big league baseball - it is beyond question the greatest conversation piece ever invented in America. ~Bruce Catton
by KaliCub on Jul 1, 2009 2:28 PM CDT reply actions 0 recs
Wait, I've got one:
OJ.
I've committed to tweeting about the Cubs for the rest of the season. (Does that sound as ridiculous as I think it does?) Anyway, if you're on Twitter, you can follow me here.
by dat cubfan daver on Jul 1, 2009 2:28 PM CDT reply actions 0 recs
Oh yeah, they would have wall to wall coverage for a week for OJ.
Say this much for big league baseball - it is beyond question the greatest conversation piece ever invented in America. ~Bruce Catton
by KaliCub on Jul 1, 2009 2:31 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Obviously, I'm being a little parochial here
Certain soccer and tennis players would cause a MUCH bigger ripple on the world stage. Yao Ming, in terms of sheer population, will affect more people than any other player.
So, let’s stick with American sports star.
There is no such thing as an ugly female breast
by Worf on Jul 1, 2009 2:33 PM CDT reply actions 0 recs
Ahnolud?
depends on if you call weightlifting a sport, I guess.
I'm a Cubs FANATIC. They are my team, through thick and thin. When they play over their heads, and when they play under the gutter. When they win the division, and then get swept in the division series. When they get no-hitters and when they blow no-hitters. And some day, when they go all the way and get those rings. This is the kind of fan I am.
by drewishdrewid on Jul 1, 2009 2:34 PM CDT reply actions 0 recs
It is...but you bring up a good point
Hulk Hogan should be on this list.
There is no such thing as an ugly female breast
by Worf on Jul 1, 2009 2:35 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
heh.
I'm a Cubs FANATIC. They are my team, through thick and thin. When they play over their heads, and when they play under the gutter. When they win the division, and then get swept in the division series. When they get no-hitters and when they blow no-hitters. And some day, when they go all the way and get those rings. This is the kind of fan I am.
by drewishdrewid on Jul 1, 2009 2:36 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
In Europe, maybe.
Gordon Beckham has a higher profile right now in the US than David Beckham does.
"You can observe a lot just by watching." ~ Yogi Berra
by Al on Jul 1, 2009 2:37 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
On what basis?
"You can observe a lot just by watching." ~ Yogi Berra
by Al on Jul 1, 2009 2:55 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Beckham
played in the US up till a few weeks ago, didn’t he?
I'm a Cubs FANATIC. They are my team, through thick and thin. When they play over their heads, and when they play under the gutter. When they win the division, and then get swept in the division series. When they get no-hitters and when they blow no-hitters. And some day, when they go all the way and get those rings. This is the kind of fan I am.
by drewishdrewid on Jul 1, 2009 2:55 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
I guess.
Did anyone notice?
"You can observe a lot just by watching." ~ Yogi Berra
by Al on Jul 1, 2009 2:56 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
there was a thing on NPR
about him being loaned to Barcelona or something. :P
I'm a Cubs FANATIC. They are my team, through thick and thin. When they play over their heads, and when they play under the gutter. When they win the division, and then get swept in the division series. When they get no-hitters and when they blow no-hitters. And some day, when they go all the way and get those rings. This is the kind of fan I am.
by drewishdrewid on Jul 1, 2009 3:09 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
I wonder if the Cubs could borrow a player or two.
I've committed to tweeting about the Cubs for the rest of the season. (Does that sound as ridiculous as I think it does?) Anyway, if you're on Twitter, you can follow me here.
by dat cubfan daver on Jul 1, 2009 3:11 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
yeah
why can’t we do that. We don’t want Brian Roberts permanently…
I'm a Cubs FANATIC. They are my team, through thick and thin. When they play over their heads, and when they play under the gutter. When they win the division, and then get swept in the division series. When they get no-hitters and when they blow no-hitters. And some day, when they go all the way and get those rings. This is the kind of fan I am.
by drewishdrewid on Jul 1, 2009 3:13 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Gordon Beckham has a higher
profile in LA right now than David Beckham. Throw in a Posh Spice and maybe it’s even.
I’m with you on this, Al. Bend it like Becks would get 2 minutes of play on Sports Center and that’s about it.
by socalbob on Jul 1, 2009 2:56 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
He's the soccer king
On a worldwide basis, as soccer being the most popular sport, I would bet you anything that people know who David Beckham is more than Gordon Beckham.
by Cubs and Hawks fan on Jul 1, 2009 2:57 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
In Europe, like I said.
Not here.
"You can observe a lot just by watching." ~ Yogi Berra
by Al on Jul 1, 2009 3:00 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Yes, here, in the U.S.
You can’t tell me that Gordon Beckham is more well know here than David Beckham.
by Cubs and Hawks fan on Jul 1, 2009 3:34 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
I have to agree with Al
Beckham is more a Europe thing. Pelé was the king of soccer all over the world.
"Every player should be accorded the privilege of at least one season with the Chicago Cubs. That's baseball as it should be played - in God's own sunshine. And that's really living."
by jkobus on Jul 1, 2009 3:36 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
And Beckham is the
soccer king all over the world now.
by Cubs and Hawks fan on Jul 1, 2009 3:43 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Yes, everywhere but the USA.
"You can observe a lot just by watching." ~ Yogi Berra
by Al on Jul 1, 2009 3:50 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Doesn't he play for the White Sox?
"We got some pretty good chemistry here. We got some toughness, and it's starting to show." - Lou Pinella
by Clutche on Jul 1, 2009 3:36 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
David Beckham is a big yawn to most of the USA.
Gordon Beckham has been in the news quite a bit lately — had a walkoff hit the other day, homered, etc.
If he’s not better known now, he will be in a year.
"You can observe a lot just by watching." ~ Yogi Berra
by Al on Jul 1, 2009 3:42 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
I don't disagree with that
and I also think David Beckham is a yawn, but I also believe he’s more popular in the U.S. than Gordon.
by Cubs and Hawks fan on Jul 1, 2009 3:44 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
I don't know Al.
Frank Thomas was one of the very best hitters of the ‘90s and I would bet that the average American had no idea who he was, even in his prime. The White Sox just don’t have a very high national profile. Even with the relative lack of interest in soccer here, most people have at least heard of David Beckham.
"That’s what I love about my skip, man. He’ll tell you that you suck...I know I suck. We know we suck...Yeah, we suck. But we’ll see who sucks at the end."
- Gary Sheffield
by DrGalazkiewicz on Jul 1, 2009 10:12 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
I think you underestimate the popularity of soccer
IIRC it is the fastest growing sport in the States, and is certainly the most popular sport amongst the nation’s youth, while baseball seems to be in a downward spiral with that age group. David Beckham was a publicity stunt by both the Galaxy and MLS that worked fairly well at first until he got injured and missed most of his first season here. Regardless, he has a fairly large following both in the country and out of it, if not for his soccer skills, then for his looks and media-worthy social life.
by waltetod on Jul 2, 2009 1:26 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
People know his name, may be able to recognize him
But not many people are going to care if he passes.
by Arbusto on Jul 1, 2009 4:10 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
One...it's Gretzky
Correct it please…
2nd: Already had mine: SWEETNESS Not just because he was a Bear and IMO the greatest back of all time, but the way he conducted himself OFF THE FIELD OF PLAY made so much a difference to me. Even though I knew he was dying back in Feb, 1999 when I heard of his death 11/1/99 driving home from work, I nearly lost control of the car and balled like a kid the rest of the way home.
Going forward no doubt it’ll be Santo in Cubdom followed closely by Banks.
As far as Michael Jackson is concerned, he brought these issues upon himself. How someone could go from such popularity and fame in the 70’s and 80’s to totally blowing it and dying so young is just so beyond my comprehension. When you compare that to Ronnie it’s like the other side of the universe.
Just win the next game...!
by blackhawk24 on Jul 1, 2009 2:34 PM CDT reply actions 0 recs
they had
significantly different childhoods. In that, for example, Ronnie had one. Michael Jackson didn’t.
I'm a Cubs FANATIC. They are my team, through thick and thin. When they play over their heads, and when they play under the gutter. When they win the division, and then get swept in the division series. When they get no-hitters and when they blow no-hitters. And some day, when they go all the way and get those rings. This is the kind of fan I am.
by drewishdrewid on Jul 1, 2009 2:36 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
...and...that means, what?
Just win the next game...!
by blackhawk24 on Jul 1, 2009 2:37 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
it partly explains
how he went from being a teenage hearththrob to a feature on Ripley’s Believe it or Not, for one thing.
I'm a Cubs FANATIC. They are my team, through thick and thin. When they play over their heads, and when they play under the gutter. When they win the division, and then get swept in the division series. When they get no-hitters and when they blow no-hitters. And some day, when they go all the way and get those rings. This is the kind of fan I am.
by drewishdrewid on Jul 1, 2009 2:53 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
I think people forget
just how many girls our age (late 30s) swooned over Michael Jackson.
There is no such thing as an ugly female breast
by Worf on Jul 1, 2009 2:54 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
So basically he just didn't handle the popularity?
Issues with his father…what?
All I know is he threw his life away. It can’t be everyone else’s fault.
Whereas on the other hand, Santo has defied death countless times.
Just win the next game...!
by blackhawk24 on Jul 1, 2009 2:56 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
You're making the mistake that character has a role in this
Princess Diana, a nice woman in a useless job, generated more of an impact than Mother Theresa.
Britney Spears will generate more ink than Aretha, sad to say.
There is no such thing as an ugly female breast
by Worf on Jul 1, 2009 2:59 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Characters' role isn't a mistake
Princess Diana and Mother Theresa both had a huge impact and for all the right reasons. Diana is perhaps to have a more perceived impact because of the coverage she had; but both had solid character. They lived honourable lives.
Well on your 2nd comparison; guess there just isn’t any. Aretha = all the character in the world; Britney = virtually no character.
During his latter years Michael Jackson, pure and simple did some stupid things. That’s a reflection of character. When is it going to come fruition that someone’s actions are going to be at least partly their own responsibility?
I’m so tired of hearing, “they had a rough childhood” or, “they had a bad relationship”. It totally flies in the face of others who had similar issues but made better choices to resolve or at least, minimize those issues. And this is why I so totally support Santo. Not just because my mother and grandmother both died of complications of the disease Ronnie has, but because of how he deals with his issues. That is character. That counts…!
Just win the next game...!
by blackhawk24 on Jul 6, 2009 12:21 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
I'm really not looking to get into an argument about Michael Jackson
he experienced different joys and different problems from Santo, and he reacted in different ways. That’s all.
I'm a Cubs FANATIC. They are my team, through thick and thin. When they play over their heads, and when they play under the gutter. When they win the division, and then get swept in the division series. When they get no-hitters and when they blow no-hitters. And some day, when they go all the way and get those rings. This is the kind of fan I am.
by drewishdrewid on Jul 1, 2009 3:10 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Look
The last Michael Jackson thread was ruined by posters. Let’s not ruin another one.
There is no such thing as an ugly female breast
by Worf on Jul 1, 2009 2:37 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Ruin what?
Just win the next game...!
by blackhawk24 on Jul 1, 2009 2:38 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Gretsky
will have a lesser impact just because in 40 years, people will struggle to remember that a game called hockey was even played.
There is no such thing as an ugly female breast
by Worf on Jul 1, 2009 2:40 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
You can still spell his name correctly
…and just because you don’t know anything about it, doesn’t mean anyone else doesn’t.
Just win the next game...!
by blackhawk24 on Jul 1, 2009 2:41 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
That Sydney Cosby kid
will have more of an impact than Gretsky
There is no such thing as an ugly female breast
by Worf on Jul 1, 2009 2:42 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Just when I thought you can't be a bigger ass
you one-up yourself.
Just win the next game...!
by blackhawk24 on Jul 1, 2009 2:43 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Didn't there used to be a player
named Bobby Ore?
There is no such thing as an ugly female breast
by Worf on Jul 1, 2009 2:47 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Yes miss
Just win the next game...!
by blackhawk24 on Jul 1, 2009 2:48 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Do not EVER
hijack another one of my threads with some pissy-ass spelling thing.
There is no such thing as an ugly female breast
by Worf on Jul 1, 2009 2:48 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Or what?
Just win the next game...!
by blackhawk24 on Jul 1, 2009 2:49 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Or I will mock you all over again
Mario Lemoo was my favorite player
There is no such thing as an ugly female breast
by Worf on Jul 1, 2009 2:49 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
OK miss
Just win the next game...!
by blackhawk24 on Jul 1, 2009 2:49 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
I'm not even sure you guys are naming real people.
What does this have to do with sports.
by Arbusto on Jul 1, 2009 4:12 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Actually Worf was...
He got all PO’d ‘cuz someone else called him out. Regardless of how silly it was. He reacted nearly 100% in line with how I thought he would; that’s fine. He’s passionate about his thoughts and writing; that’s OK.
Just win the next game...!
by blackhawk24 on Jul 6, 2009 12:22 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Surely you jest.
Crosby has a long way to go to reach Gretzky status. In fact, he’s got a long way to go to reach Howe status.
"I feel sorry for people who don't drink. When they wake up in the morning, that's as good as they're going to feel all day." ~ Frank Sinatra
by tville on Jul 1, 2009 3:12 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
DITKA!
I'm a Cubs FANATIC. They are my team, through thick and thin. When they play over their heads, and when they play under the gutter. When they win the division, and then get swept in the division series. When they get no-hitters and when they blow no-hitters. And some day, when they go all the way and get those rings. This is the kind of fan I am.
by drewishdrewid on Jul 1, 2009 2:37 PM CDT reply actions 0 recs
The Grim Reaper fears Ditka
He’s not going anywhere near Ditka, because he doesn’t want to get his ass handed to him a piece at a time.
by Mike Vails Evil Twin on Jul 1, 2009 2:42 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Missed him
You reeled in a big one there!
Just win the next game...!
by blackhawk24 on Jul 1, 2009 2:47 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Michael Jordan...
No doubt about it. I grew up idolizing the guy and and worshipped anything “Jordan” when I was a kid. No other actor, musician or athlete would even come close.
Someday we'll go all the way...
by CubsBullsBears on Jul 1, 2009 2:40 PM CDT reply actions 0 recs
How 'bout outside Chi-Town?
Yeah, it won’t be as big but would it register that much at all outside Chicago?
I think people are drawn to the most silly-assed deaths. Just like that blonde bimbo in the Bahamas a couple years ago. She was a freaking clown, starving for attention (and that’s the key).
MJ as great as he was a player, is still level-headed and isn’t out there doing stupid shit trying to draw attention to himself. By just that I think he won’t draw the attention outside Chicago we will have for him.
No doubting his greatness though.
Just win the next game...!
by blackhawk24 on Jul 1, 2009 2:46 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
See my posts above...
His impact was global.
Someday we'll go all the way...
by CubsBullsBears on Jul 1, 2009 2:50 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
OK...good points
Hadn’t been talking with folks outside the US about MJ but do now remember some colleagues from Denmark speaking of him.
Just win the next game...!
by blackhawk24 on Jul 1, 2009 2:52 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Again, Michael Jordan's fame transcended sports.
During the Bulls’ 90s heyday, he was known throughout the world. I’m not sure the reaction his death will match Michael Jackson’s but it will be a big story.
I've committed to tweeting about the Cubs for the rest of the season. (Does that sound as ridiculous as I think it does?) Anyway, if you're on Twitter, you can follow me here.
by dat cubfan daver on Jul 1, 2009 2:52 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
I think it'd surpass Jackson...
if it occurred in the next 10 years. Jordan was, and is, the MOST iconic sports figure ever. Pele might be the only one comparable and eventually Woods perhaps. Jordan globalized the game and the entire NBA would mourn that premature death.
Free Ronny Cedeno
by Kansas25 on Jul 1, 2009 3:49 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Sorry I still disagree
You are also only looking at 50%. I don’t see women around the world out in the streets in impromptu gatherings crying for Michael Jordan.
by rlpete on Jul 1, 2009 6:14 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
No, but there would be groups of men like me...
…gathering in parks all over the world trying to dunk on each other.
“Ugh, my back!”
I've committed to tweeting about the Cubs for the rest of the season. (Does that sound as ridiculous as I think it does?) Anyway, if you're on Twitter, you can follow me here.
by dat cubfan daver on Jul 2, 2009 9:30 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Karl Malden
just died.
http://www.variety.com/article/VR1118005590.html?categoryid=14&ref=ra&cs=1
I'm a Cubs FANATIC. They are my team, through thick and thin. When they play over their heads, and when they play under the gutter. When they win the division, and then get swept in the division series. When they get no-hitters and when they blow no-hitters. And some day, when they go all the way and get those rings. This is the kind of fan I am.
by drewishdrewid on Jul 1, 2009 2:51 PM CDT reply actions 0 recs
Wow.. 97
I honestly thought he was already dead.
OK, we’re due for Cronkite to go at any time. It comes in threes and that Billy Mays guy just died.
There is no such thing as an ugly female breast
by Worf on Jul 1, 2009 2:52 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
What is the rules of 3
there some timeframe like a week? How close was Mays to McMahon, Fawcett and MJ?
Just win the next game...!
by blackhawk24 on Jul 1, 2009 2:54 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
If you count
McMahon, Fawcett and MJ together, that’s three.
Supposedly, it goes: Someone old (McMahon), someone sick (Farrah) and someone sudden. (Jackson)
Mays is the sudden and Malden is the old. It’s been reported that Cronkite is very ill.
There is no such thing as an ugly female breast
by Worf on Jul 1, 2009 2:56 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Cronkite is pretty old, too, 92.
"You can observe a lot just by watching." ~ Yogi Berra
by Al on Jul 1, 2009 2:56 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
OK...old, sick and sudden makes sense
I counted the right number just didn’t know if it’s in a couple days, week, month…
Now with Cronkite, that makes sense with Mays & Malden.
Just win the next game...!
by blackhawk24 on Jul 1, 2009 2:58 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
You forgot
John Calloway from Channel 11
"That’s what I love about my skip, man. He’ll tell you that you suck...I know I suck. We know we suck...Yeah, we suck. But we’ll see who sucks at the end."
- Gary Sheffield
by DrGalazkiewicz on Jul 1, 2009 10:18 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
at this point
it’s sixes.
McMahon
Fawcett
Jackson
Mays
Malden
WHO IS NEXT?
I'm a Cubs FANATIC. They are my team, through thick and thin. When they play over their heads, and when they play under the gutter. When they win the division, and then get swept in the division series. When they get no-hitters and when they blow no-hitters. And some day, when they go all the way and get those rings. This is the kind of fan I am.
by drewishdrewid on Jul 1, 2009 2:55 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Walter Cronkite is very sick
There is no such thing as an ugly female breast
by Worf on Jul 1, 2009 2:56 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
He's not quite dead yet
In fact, he’s feeling much better.
A child of five would understand this. Send someone to fetch a child of five.
by copes006 on Jul 1, 2009 7:43 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Is Carradine too far out of the rule even though it was 2 weeks?
by Arbusto on Jul 1, 2009 4:13 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
oh, that's right.
I'm a Cubs FANATIC. They are my team, through thick and thin. When they play over their heads, and when they play under the gutter. When they win the division, and then get swept in the division series. When they get no-hitters and when they blow no-hitters. And some day, when they go all the way and get those rings. This is the kind of fan I am.
by drewishdrewid on Jul 1, 2009 4:36 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Yep, put him on the board.
I've committed to tweeting about the Cubs for the rest of the season. (Does that sound as ridiculous as I think it does?) Anyway, if you're on Twitter, you can follow me here.
by dat cubfan daver on Jul 2, 2009 9:31 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Ted Kennedy.
"You have to have short-term memory, no matter who you are in this game. There's always tomorrow." ~Derrek Lee
by Goodie1969 on Jul 1, 2009 9:00 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
OK, that's just plain weird.
I suppose it would be even weirder if a sports figure passed away while this thread was goin’ on.
I've committed to tweeting about the Cubs for the rest of the season. (Does that sound as ridiculous as I think it does?) Anyway, if you're on Twitter, you can follow me here.
by dat cubfan daver on Jul 1, 2009 2:53 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
He puts Bartman on there????
Will Leitch is a Cardinals fan. What. Ever.
There is no such thing as an ugly female breast
by Worf on Jul 1, 2009 3:01 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
grain of salt
Vince Young? C’mon. Really? Vince Young in the Top 10?
by socalbob on Jul 1, 2009 3:02 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Because soccer is more global........
………..Pele’s passing might have a greater impact than the others mentioned previously.
"I feel sorry for people who don't drink. When they wake up in the morning, that's as good as they're going to feel all day." ~ Frank Sinatra
by tville on Jul 1, 2009 3:15 PM CDT reply actions 0 recs
Albert Pojuls
"We got some pretty good chemistry here. We got some toughness, and it's starting to show." - Lou Pinella
by Clutche on Jul 1, 2009 3:18 PM CDT reply actions 0 recs
Is he another soccer player?
I've committed to tweeting about the Cubs for the rest of the season. (Does that sound as ridiculous as I think it does?) Anyway, if you're on Twitter, you can follow me here.
by dat cubfan daver on Jul 1, 2009 3:23 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
You could say that....he does he soccer a few out of the park
"We got some pretty good chemistry here. We got some toughness, and it's starting to show." - Lou Pinella
by Clutche on Jul 1, 2009 3:34 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
he does, does he?
Well I’ll be…
"Ask Dad. He'll know. And on the off chance he doesn't, he'll make something up"
by StevenABQ on Jul 1, 2009 3:38 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
How about this?
A convicted baseball “user” dies prematurely from heart troubles or something that can be directly or indirectly related to steroids. I think that would shake the baseball world.
Chris Benoit aside, I believe pro wrestling has had a few of these deaths. If this steroids issue continues to linger, a death of say, Barry Bonds, at age 45-55 would absolutely condemn the MLB and there would be a nasty backlash.
Free Ronny Cedeno
by Kansas25 on Jul 1, 2009 3:46 PM CDT reply actions 0 recs
That very well could happen.
"You can observe a lot just by watching." ~ Yogi Berra
by Al on Jul 1, 2009 3:50 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Maurice Clarett
Get Peavy already! I want my #44 jersey!
by Cub Style on Jul 1, 2009 6:08 PM CDT reply actions 0 recs
In terms of non-athlete sports figures
I’ve often thought of the impact the deaths of George Steinbrenner and Marvin Miller would have. People would either be eulogizing their contributions to free agency and the strength of the MLBPA, or they’d be dancing on their graves.
by CaliCub on Jul 2, 2009 12:12 AM CDT reply actions 0 recs
Al Yellon
"I can accept failure, but I can't accept not trying" - Michael Jordan, the one and only...
by LPLancer23 on Jul 2, 2009 2:37 AM CDT reply actions 0 recs
*Awkward silence.*
I've committed to tweeting about the Cubs for the rest of the season. (Does that sound as ridiculous as I think it does?) Anyway, if you're on Twitter, you can follow me here.
by dat cubfan daver on Jul 2, 2009 9:32 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
That was real classy, dude.
"Hats for bats.....keep bats warm." - Pedro Cerrano
"Hey bartender, Jobu needs a refill !!!!!!!" - Eddie Harris
by willie mays hayes' gloves on Jul 2, 2009 9:44 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
o.0
I'm a Cubs FANATIC. They are my team, through thick and thin. When they play over their heads, and when they play under the gutter. When they win the division, and then get swept in the division series. When they get no-hitters and when they blow no-hitters. And some day, when they go all the way and get those rings. This is the kind of fan I am.
by drewishdrewid on Jul 2, 2009 10:31 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Oh dude....
not cool.
Just win the next game...!
by blackhawk24 on Jul 6, 2009 12:24 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Bud Selig.
(crosses fingers)
"You have to have short-term memory, no matter who you are in this game. There's always tomorrow." ~Derrek Lee
by Goodie1969 on Jul 2, 2009 10:32 PM CDT reply actions 0 recs
But does that put McPhail...
on the fast track on what I believe he’s been targeting for years?
Just win the next game...!
by blackhawk24 on Jul 6, 2009 12:24 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
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