MOST memorable play by a player, Any sport

.

Eli Manning to David Tyree

Eli Manning just for eluding the sack alone.

In comment 15135528 Route 9 said:

Quote:

Eli Manning just for eluding the sack alone.

Manning Twisted helmet and displaced shoulder pad, 2012 NFCC

I think acrobatic INT against Mcnabb in 2001 divisional playoff game

vs the Royals ALCS 1978(?). George Brett hit three HRs in that game (Catfish Hunter?). Munson hit what looked to be the game tying sac fly to LC. I was in the upper stands in left by the foul pole and it was still going up when it went passed the pole from my angle and then ended up over the former 430 sign in LC for a 5-4 lead. What was almost as amazing was Willie Wilson(the CF) was standing at the wall waiting - he was that fast.

Odd choice to many. But this guy WAS hockey in Rochester for many years He was everywhere and deserved it. I loved that guy.

in the 1980 Olympic game against the USSR.

the flip

In comment 15135535 Steve L said:

Quote:

Odd choice to many. But this guy WAS hockey in Rochester for many years He was everywhere and deserved it. I loved that guy.

Never heard of him. What level of hockey below the NHL?

wide right.

3rd and 13

Leonard Marshall - Montana sack
Gary Reasons - The Hit
Sehorn - playoff INT return vs Eagles (mentioned above)
Tyree - Helmet Catch (obvious)
Pierce - stopping screen pass in NFC championship game
George Martin - screen pass INT return vs Elway

Stunned people exited their houses in Bklyn., the pain and disbelieve etched on their faces. I had dinner with Branca some thirty years afterwards and never mentioned it.

Barra's HR against Newcombe in the bottom of the ninth to give Allie Reynolds a one nothing victory

Allie Reynold's two no hitters after Berra dropped the first pop up

Don Larson's perfect game

Havilchek's steal. Birds steal and pass to DJ.
Alan Ameche off the right side in old Yankee stadium...Gifford 3 fumbled in that game
Sandy Sadler upsets Willie Pep

And DiMaggio, to the best of my knowledge, NEver said Mays was the GOAT, in fact, he wouldn't make appearances unless he was introduced as the greatest living ball player.

but Larry Bird's steal and pass to Dennis Johnson for the winning layup in the 1987 NBA playoffs vs. the Pistons was as improbable and incredible as it gets.

OBJ's one-hander against Dallas.

Jordan- "The shot" 98 Finals winner vs Utah.
Bo Jackson- Chases down fly ball and climbs up OF wall
Endy Chavez- NLCS robs HR with arm stretched out beyond fence
Jeter- Flip play
John Starks- The Dunk
Eli- To Tyree 42
Eli- To Manningham 46
Houston- Clinching runner in the paint against Miami in 99

between the wickets

Play

Babe Ruth calling his shot

touchdown against Dallas comes to mind.

Franz Klammer winning the downhill gold in the 1976 Winter Olympics.

step back game winner against Pitt in the 2011 BET. That’s up there for me for sure. I know where I was (work) and what I did (screamed), haha.

Kirk Gibson's 1988 World Series home run
Secretariat's Belmont Stakes
Muhammad Ali's rope-a-dope

In comment 15135537 BamaBlue said:

Quote:

in the 1980 Olympic game against the USSR.

This play was what popped in my head first. Second would be Matt Bahr’s kick to end the 3peat and send the Giants to the Super Bowl.

after Thurman had died

have any left which cost them the ‘93 title against UNC

for me by a player. Had just an absolutely huge impact on the game, and momentum moving forward!
AP screen 2007 - ( New Window )

for me by a player. Had just an absolutely huge impact on the game, and momentum moving forward!
AP screen 2007 - ( New Window )

Sorry!

1996 World Series Game 4 vs Atlanta

He doesn't hit that...their might not be the late 90s Yankees dynasty.

tuck rule

In comment 15135569 SomeFan said:

Quote:

Franz Klammer winning the downhill gold in the 1976 Winter Olympics.

^^^^THIS^^^^

Klammer stayed on his skiis by a hair, at best!!!

Chris Chambliss' walk off vs the Royals, game 5 ALCS also in '76.

What a year for sports...

Willis Reed jump shot.

I would add Bobby Thompson HR and Willie Mays (my favorite player of all) World Series catch but I didn’t see them live (not all of us had TV).

There is often a point in time where you are watching a sporting event and something happens that causes you to say “we’ve got this”. In my memory, that occurred when that black cat walked/ran across the field in 1969.

But Secreteriat's 30 length win at the Belmont to nail down the Triple Crown, really that was the MOST MEMORABLE and greatest performance ever by an athlete.

The group of college friends and I watching it were absolutely stunned.

We wouldn't have been more shocked, in awe, or silenced if a real life ET knocked on the door of our frat.

Andre Iguodala in Game 7 of the '16 NBA Finals.

in the '88 WS. Given the circumstances, the aura around Eckersly as unhittable, and Gibson playing on one leg, just a tremendous moment.

Secretariat -just wow
Chambliss HR to win the playoff series (mobbed on the bases)
Gibson HR (even though I hate the Dodgers)
Willis Reed limping on the court for game 7 in 1970 (chills still)

I still think the Eli to Manningham throw and catch was even more impressive. While there was more than a little luck involved in the helmet catch, the throw to MM was just superior execution on both sides of the throw and catch - Eli to put the ball in the exact spot where only MM could get it, and MM for making a difficult catch and staying in bounds.

The icing on the cake was watching BB's reaction. The play happened right in front of him, and while everyone else on the sideline was frantically waving it out of bounds, BB just shook his head and walked away.

NY based plays

In comment 15135649 EricJ said:

Quote:

NY based plays

well, that's your target audience here.

Tyree helmet catch.
Jeter flip play.
Manning to Manningham.
3rd and 13 vs Minny in '86.
Chambliss HR.
Secretariat
Maris' 61st HR.
Willis Reed.

good times ... would be nice if they would return!

Scott Burrell length of the court to Tate George for the game winner vs Clemson in the Sweet Sixteen of the 1990 NCAA tourney.

Really put Uconn basketball on the map, and I went to High School with Burrell so we went insane.

I have more, but this one stands out.

carrying half the 49ers team on his back down the field.

Doug Flutie's Hail Mary against Miami in 1984

it's Eruzione's goal to give the US the lead vs Russia in the Miracle on Ice game.

watching him run on the ice after that goal is indelibly etched in my mind forever. So many great memories of that game - the Mark Johnson goal buzzer beater, some of Craig's saves and the celebration still sometimes gets me misty eyed, but that goal always stands out to me as the greatest moment in sports. and I don't know there will ever be a greater one.

someone commented above.

- Christien Laettner turnaround shot to beat Kentucky.
- Chris Davis (who's name probably falls into obscurity), and the Kick-6 in the 2013 Iron Bowl to beat Alabama.
- While he has tons of famous moments, Sidney Crosby's Golden Goal in the 2010 Olympics to beat the USA is probably his most memorable singular moment.
- Doug Flutie's Hail Flutie, to lead BC over Miami
- Joe Carter and his World Series walk off

and then hitting it out versus the Cubs in the World Series. Legendary.

In comment 15135652 Del Shofner said:

Quote:

In comment 15135649 EricJ said: Quote: NY based plays well, that's your target audience here.

I understand but it just goes to show how people are "homers" and cannot view sports objectively. This carries into game threads too when the camera clearly shows one thing end people here think it shows something else (in their minds)

Maybe the thread is about memorable plays for each person (personally) and not memorable in sports history. Maybe I just did not understand the original question.

I would agree with others on Eruzione. It was an event that united the country and the victory was more improbable than the Giants beating the Pats.

... I have to go with a much less known one, that I will nevertheless remember until the day I die:

Marek Malik's shootout winner for the NYR vs. the Capitols.

Watching it live at the time, I nearly fell off my chair.

I don't think I can remember a single moment of the rest of Malik's time with the Rangers (and honestly I've given up on hockey for years at this point). But just incredible.
Link - ( New Window )

...the play was ridiculous, but the GRAVITY of it in time, a sword in the belly of the UNBEATEN Patriots in a true David v Goliath Superbowl HAS to be the most memorable.

... behind the bag! It gets through Buckner! Here comes Knight and the Mets win it!

World Series. Over.

2nd Bird steals the inbounds pass from Isiah Thomnas

3rd ... Mike Tyson loses to Buster Douglas. (not a single play but the moment itself)

@ the 2005 Masters

NY-Related Games
Basketball: Willis Reed Game 7
Baseball: Bucky Dent home run
Football: David Tyree Helmet catch

Any Games
Basketball: Christian Laettner shot vs Kentucky
Baseball: Kirk Gibson home run
Football: David Tyree Helmet catch

But Erik Howard with his hat on the ball causing the Craig fumble to fall into LT's hands. That was the only turnover of the game.

But MOST memorable outside NY - Gibson with the PH HR. Cant make that stuff up and will never forget it.

George Brett going crazy in the pine tar game?
Don Beebe for saving the TD in the SB, likewise Leon Lett is is known for several bad plays.

Aaron Boone walk off in ‘03 ALCS, LeBron’s block on Iguodala in game 7 of the ‘16 Finals (89-89 game with under 2 minutes left), Reggie Miller’s back to back 3’s against the Knicks in the ‘95 playoffs, Malcolm Butler INT in SB49, Santonio Holmes TD in SB43, Vinatieri’s game winning FG in SB36, Mike Jones stopping Kevin Dyson at the 1 yard line in SB34, Tracy Porter pick 6 against Peyton in SB44, Marc-Andre Fleury’s save on Lidstrom in game 7 of the ‘09 Stanley Cup Finals, any of the 3 walkoffs in the ‘01 World Series games 5-7.

In comment 15135672 dschwarz in westchester said:

Quote:

... I have to go with a much less known one, that I will nevertheless remember until the day I die: Marek Malik's shootout winner for the NYR vs. the Capitols. Watching it live at the time, I nearly fell off my chair. I don't think I can remember a single moment of the rest of Malik's time with the Rangers (and honestly I've given up on hockey for years at this point). But just incredible. Link - ( New Window )

This is one of my favorite moments too. First year of the shootout, 15th round, “Malik now! 6’6”, 238, not a noted goal scorer but he’s gonna give it a shot here”...I think I’ve watched this on YouTube about 500 times over the years hahaha.

In comment 15135671 EricJ said:

Quote:

In comment 15135652 Del Shofner said: Quote: In comment 15135649 EricJ said: Quote: NY based plays well, that's your target audience here. I understand but it just goes to show how people are "homers" and cannot view sports objectively. This carries into game threads too when the camera clearly shows one thing end people here think it shows something else (in their minds) Maybe the thread is about memorable plays for each person (personally) and not memorable in sports history. Maybe I just did not understand the original question. I would agree with others on Eruzione. It was an event that united the country and the victory was more improbable than the Giants beating the Pats.

I see a lot of non-NY sports plays/moments

In comment 15135604 SFGFNCGiantsFan said:

Quote:

Andre Iguodala in Game 7 of the '16 NBA Finals.

Plus one.

.

out of bounds in the 99' WCF was unreal. Ahhh back when basketball was my favorite sport, haha.

A few of the top of my head...

-- Kirk Gibson's HR off Eckersley
-- Jordan's game winning shot G6, '98 Finals v Utah
-- Keith Smart's game winning shot v Cuse in '87 Final
-- Erik Howard stripping Roger Craig, '90 NFCG
-- Ray Allen's game tying three pointer G6 v San Antonio
-- Jeter's backhand flip to get Giambi in the '01 ALDS
-- Doug Flutie's "hail mary" to beat Miami
-- Laettner's shot v Kentucky
-- Joe Carter's GW HR off Mitch Williams to win the WS
-- Cal Ripken's HR when he broke Lou Gehrig's streak

followed up by his hat trick

In comment 15135722 bw in dc said:

Quote:

A few of the top of my head... -- Kirk Gibson's HR off Eckersley -- Jordan's game winning shot G6, '98 Finals v Utah -- Keith Smart's game winning shot v Cuse in '87 Final -- Erik Howard stripping Roger Craig, '90 NFCG -- Ray Allen's game tying three pointer G6 v San Antonio -- Jeter's backhand flip to get Giambi in the '01 ALDS -- Doug Flutie's "hail mary" to beat Miami -- Laettner's shot v Kentucky -- Joe Carter's GW HR off Mitch Williams to win the WS -- Cal Ripken's HR when he broke Lou Gehrig's streak

That’s actually a solid post. WTF happened to you?

Fisk HR a close second

In comment 15135751 davew926 said:

Quote:

Fisk HR a close second

Both Agee catches, same WS game

I thought of those catches as well as JC Martin bunt

- Larry Johnson's 4-point play vs. Pacers (6/5/99)
- Scott Niedermayer's carom rebound goal vs. Red Wings (6/2/95)
- Chris Webber's timeout vs. UNC (4/5/93)
- Gallego-Kelly-Mattingly 6-4-3 DP (Mike Gallego's diving stop combined with Pat Kelly's barehanded pivot makes it great) vs. Orioles (8/13/93)
- Simms to Bavaro to McConkey in SB XXI vs. Broncos (1/25/87)
- LaVar Arrington's "LaVar Leap" vs. Illinois (10/31/98)
- Randolph Childress' crossover against UNC's Jeff McInnis (3/12/95)

a Derek Jeter Homerun in 1996.......

In comment 15135758 Gatorade Dunk said:

Quote:

- Larry Johnson's 4-point play vs. Pacers (6/5/99) - Scott Niedermayer's carom rebound goal vs. Red Wings (6/2/95) - Chris Webber's timeout vs. UNC (4/5/93) - Gallego-Kelly-Mattingly 6-4-3 DP (Mike Gallego's diving stop combined with Pat Kelly's barehanded pivot makes it great) vs. Orioles (8/13/93) - Simms to Bavaro to McConkey in SB XXI vs. Broncos (1/25/87) - LaVar Arrington's "LaVar Leap" vs. Illinois (10/31/98) - Randolph Childress' crossover against UNC's Jeff McInnis (3/12/95)

Sheesh. LJ 4-pointer. Was that really nearly 21 years ago? Cliched, but it really feels like a recent occurrence..

Jay Alford crushing Brady.

ran fumble recovery wrong way for a safety.

Billy Mills, 10,000 meter win, 64 Tokyo Olympics.

In comment 15135758 Gatorade Dunk said:

Quote:

- Larry Johnson's 4-point play vs. Pacers (6/5/99) - Scott Niedermayer's carom rebound goal vs. Red Wings (6/2/95) - Chris Webber's timeout vs. UNC (4/5/93) - Gallego-Kelly-Mattingly 6-4-3 DP (Mike Gallego's diving stop combined with Pat Kelly's barehanded pivot makes it great) vs. Orioles (8/13/93) - Simms to Bavaro to McConkey in SB XXI vs. Broncos (1/25/87) - LaVar Arrington's "LaVar Leap" vs. Illinois (10/31/98) - Randolph Childress' crossover against UNC's Jeff McInnis (3/12/95)

The "LaVar Leap" was unbelievable. I was drinking the LT comparison Kool Aid after that happened... ;)

I'll kick myself in the ass for bringing it up

In comment 15135649 EricJ said:

Quote:

NY based plays

Of course, as far as Yankees go, when you're the most dominant sports franchise in the history of any single sport for the past century, you're bound to have more than your fair share of memorable moments, no?

Game itself was meaningless, but holy shit.

few among us would have seen it at the time, Jessie Owens winning the gold medal (4 of them in total?) during the 1936 Olympics in Hitler's Nazi Germany.

Watching video of it after the fact was spine tingling at its finest.

catch that live.

goal vs Algeria in the 2010 World Cup.

In comment 15135802 BelieveJJ said:

Quote:

In comment 15135649 EricJ said: Quote: NY based plays Of course, as far as Yankees go, when you're the most dominant sports franchise in the history of any single sport for the past century, you're bound to have more than your fair share of memorable moments, no?

It's not even that complicated.

This is a Giants message board. Most sports fans who are Giants fans are also fans of other NY-area teams. Sure, there are a few exceptions, but just generally speaking. And most people's most memorable plays are going to be from the games they were watching.

In comment 15135821 Gatorade Dunk said:

Quote:

It's not even that complicated. This is a Giants message board. Most sports fans who are Giants fans are also fans of other NY-area teams. Sure, there are a few exceptions, but just generally speaking. And most people's most memorable plays are going to be from the games they were watching.

Of course. That's one reason Jessie Owens' 1936 performance in Berlin was as afterthought, too.

In comment 15135537 BamaBlue said:

Quote:

in the 1980 Olympic game against the USSR.

Absolutely. First thing I thought of.

But Wash FT running back Larry Brown's run on a 3rd and 12 when everybody knew where the ball was going and he still made 13 yds after more than half of the Giants defense had a shot at him kinda sticks out in my mind.

Also the 3rd down run by Otis Anderson to seal a victory was a similar situation.

1973 The Belmont Stakes

before finishing the 100m in the 2008 Olympics, as he demolished the field and STILL set a world record despite showboating the last tenth of the race. Bolt during these years was as dominant as any athlete ever, and this was his most memorable moment imo.

In comment 15135858 Osi Osi Osi OyOyOy said:

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before finishing the 100m in the 2008 Olympics, as he demolished the field and STILL set a world record despite showboating the last tenth of the race. Bolt during these years was as dominant as any athlete ever, and this was his most memorable moment imo.

He was a machine...unbelievable.

maybe not the best but man I remember it.

Not what I think is/should be.

Chambliss
Pine Tar
Fumble
Helmet Catch.
Manningham. Both
Jeter flip.
Immaculate Reception
Ghost to the Post
Reggie number three
Lynn Swann
Down goes Frazier
Foreman goes down.
Tyson knocks out Spinks
The Hit
Jacobs vs Woodson

Gotta stop somewhere

Most memorable is the Helmet catch.

That feeling.

Leaves me breathless just thinking about it.

LJ's 4 point play

Starks - The Dunk

Jeter into the stands

Norwood wide right

Tyree - Helmet

Gibson walk off HR

Aaron fucking Boone - HR vs. Boston

Jim Leritz (spelling) HR vs. Atlanta

I am sure I will think of more later.

Rypkin's HR in All Star Game last year

In comment 15136008 Mark from Jersey said:

Quote:

LJ's 4 point play Starks - The Dunk Jeter into the stands Norwood wide right Tyree - Helmet Gibson walk off HR Aaron fucking Boone - HR vs. Boston Jim Leritz (spelling) HR vs. Atlanta I am sure I will think of more later. Rypkin's HR in All Star Game last year

Ooof, mixing up the spelling of Mark Rypien's name with Cal Ripken's name is a rough one. Worse than not bothering to Google "Leyritz"

1. Ali knocks out Frazier
2. gibson pinch hit homer
3. immaculate reception
4. maradona goal in 86 world cup vs england
5. tyson loses in japan
6. new england vs atlanta
7. usain bolt olympics 2008
8. usa hockey vs russia 1980
9. red sox game 7 vs yanks 2004
10. giants stun pats-including the catch
11. dimaggio 56 game streak
12. namath guarantee

mostly american centric.

...
- Jim Burt - Montana
- Odell - Dallas
- Gary Reasons - Bobby Humphrey
- Randall Cunningham - Carl Banks

His Fosbury Flop high jump method revolutionized the sport. The world took notice at the 1968 Olympics where he took the gold medal.

In comment 15135838 BelieveJJ said:

Quote:

In comment 15135821 Gatorade Dunk said: Quote: It's not even that complicated. This is a Giants message board. Most sports fans who are Giants fans are also fans of other NY-area teams. Sure, there are a few exceptions, but just generally speaking. And most people's most memorable plays are going to be from the games they were watching. Of course. That's one reason Jessie [sic] Owens' 1936 performance in Berlin was as afterthought, too.

Do you see any of Jim Thorpe's moments on here? Jack Johnson? Babe Didrikson Zaharias?

Jesse Owens is in the same group as those athletes. There's not even any Barry Sanders or Jim Brown or Walter Payton moments on this list, and this is a football message board.

It's not that complicated. It's what people have actually seen. You're the one who tried to make some NY reference that really didn't have any legs.

You're throwing Owens' out there like it's notable of anything, but I don't see any mentions of Mark Spitz or Michael Phelps or Ian Thorpe, or Mary Lou Retton, Carl Lewis, etc.

Do you think there's anyone on this message board who saw Jesse Owens' performance in 1936? How would that even appear on this thread without anyone here having seen it?

In comment 15136036 hassan said:

Quote:

1. Ali knocks out Frazier 2. gibson pinch hit homer 3. immaculate reception 4. maradona goal in 86 world cup vs england 5. tyson loses in japan 6. new england vs atlanta 7. usain bolt olympics 2008 8. usa hockey vs russia 1980 9. red sox game 7 vs yanks 2004 10. giants stun pats-including the catch 11. dimaggio 56 game streak 12. namath guarantee mostly american centric.

Number 6 does not belong on that list.

.

In comment 15135814 BelieveJJ said:

Quote:

catch that live.

What an odd reference for someone who hasn't been here very long.

but for me
Andres Iniesta Game winning Gol that won Spains first and only World Cup.
Just like the first Giants SB, a game that I'll never ever forget

Don MAttingly's HR in Game 2 of the ALDS. My favorite event witnessed in person.

The next that comes to mind immediately that for me defines the player and the team was Mark Bavaro's catch and run to spur the comeback on MNF against the 49ers.

LJs 4 point play is the next one and the 2nd most memorable even I witnessed in person.

Rounding out what comes to mind quickly is Jeter's 3000th hit (at that game also), Tyree's catch, Marcus allen's long TD run in the SB, Mark Ingram breaking a ton of tackles for a huge 1st down conversion in SB XXV, OJ Anderson's uppercut run, Joe Morris TD run with his sock flapping, Reggie's 3 HR, Allan Houston's shot to beat the Heat.

A meaningless game, but I still remember Louis Orr hitting a half court buzzer beater to beat the much better Celtics on MLK Day circa 1986.

Starks lefty dunk against the Bulls - I had to show that my boys recently after I insisted on playing with the 94 Knicks on NBA 2K

Jeter's catch diving into the stands on a foul ball against the Sox


OK more than 2 more:
Jeter's flip also.

I was also at A-Rod's 3000th hit and remember the stark difference at Yankee Stadium from a year prior for Jeter.

Watching Guidry have 14Ks toward the end of his career

Righetti no-hitter

Buster Douglas knocking out Tyson.

In comment 15136086 bw in dc said:

Quote:

Buster Douglas knocking out Tyson.

I was a huge Tyson fan, so that is one I bury deep down.

but Mays Catch very well be the most memorable and defining play in all of sports.

In comment 15136089 Matt M. said:

Quote:

In comment 15136086 bw in dc said: Quote: Buster Douglas knocking out Tyson. I was a huge Tyson fan, so that is one I bury deep down.

Not sure it was the same year, but did you see the Meldrick Taylor v Ceasar Chavez fight that year?

That fight was incredible...

... but us fans will always remember him for “The Save”.
Holtby - The Save - ( New Window )

In comment 15135668 No Where Man said:

Quote:

and then hitting it out versus the Cubs in the World Series. Legendary.

I don't think he actually pointed to center field. He changed his story multiple times, and at first even said he didn't point to the outfield. Only many years later, when the myth had grown and grown and grown thanks to sportswriters, did his story become this: "so I pointed out to dead centerfield and said 'I'm gonna hit it right past the flagpole!'"

But, still impressive is the truth: which is that he pointed to the Chicago dugout (both fans and Cubs players were talking a lot of shit to him at that point) and he basically said "that's only 2 strikes, there's still 1 to go." And on the next pitch he hit it out of the park.

Anyway, again, still impressive, but below is the best investigation of the story, and they even have actual footage of the at bat and him pointing at the Chicago dugout.
The Truth about Ruth - ( New Window )

... to beat UNCW in the NCAA first round in 2003.
Drew Nicholas Buzzer Beater - ( New Window )

In comment 15136110 Leg of Theismann said:

Quote:

In comment 15135668 No Where Man said: Quote: and then hitting it out versus the Cubs in the World Series. Legendary. I don't think he actually pointed to center field. He changed his story multiple times, and at first even said he didn't point to the outfield. Only many years later, when the myth had grown and grown and grown thanks to sportswriters, did his story become this: "so I pointed out to dead centerfield and said 'I'm gonna hit it right past the flagpole!'" But, still impressive is the truth: which is that he pointed to the Chicago dugout (both fans and Cubs players were talking a lot of shit to him at that point) and he basically said "that's only 2 strikes, there's still 1 to go." And on the next pitch he hit it out of the park. Anyway, again, still impressive, but below is the best investigation of the story, and they even have actual footage of the at bat and him pointing at the Chicago dugout. The Truth about Ruth - ( New Window )

I saw that piece last year. It's interesting. As you say, it really is just about as impressive if he merely pointed to the Cubs dugout and shows 2 strikes. He still swatted a mammoth HR on the next pitch.

Does the player have to be indefinitely identified as the player who made that play? For example, in your Willie Mays example, if you asked me what is the most famous Willie Mays play ever, I'm of course answering that catch... but when you ask me what do I think of when I hear the name Willie Mays, I just start thinking words like "best all-around player" or "one of the best ever" or even abstract thoughts like "on baseball's Mount Rushmore." He's so much more than that one play, even though that's of course his biggest play.

Same thing can be said if I were to think about Michael Jordan. His shot against Cleveland is one of the most iconic in the history of the sport, but I think of a hell of a lot more than that one moment.

So if the player does not need to be defined by that one moment, then I have to go with Michael Jordan for that shot against Cleveland.

If he does... then it's Bill Buckner.

I think you must include Kerri Strug's last vault with two torn ligaments in her foot in the 1996 olympics.

Bringing home the gold for her team.

Olivia Wilde is currently directing a biography about her.

.

....what is THE play you think of when you think of that player?

To give a less obvious example....I will always remember Andy Pettitte for firing a perfect throw to third base to nab Smoltz at third on a bunt in Game 5 of the 1996 World Series. It was a tense game. Yanks had taken a 1-0 lead, but Smoltz was dominant and they didn't figure to score much more. In the 6th, Smoltz led off with a base hit. Another single followed to give the Braves first and second with no one out. Mark Lemke then bunted a ball back to Pettitte. If Pettitte hadn't made the throw he made, he would have had bases loaded. Instead, third remained empty, and Chipper Jones then hit into a double play to end the threat. Yanks won 1-0. Smoltz said he pitched better in that game than any other of his career, but he lost due in no small part to Pettitte's play.

In comment 15136111 tony stg said:

Quote:

... to beat UNCW in the NCAA first round in 2003. Drew Nicholas Buzzer Beater - ( New Window )

There is only one buzzer beater for me, as I'm sure you could guess

60-foot buzzer beater against the Knicks in the 1970 championship series? That was memorable.

Swish! - ( New Window )

That pass from Clark to Diakite never fails to astonish me. It would have been an incredible pass no matter who made it, but a lightly-recruited freshman, ranked something like #350 in his recruiting class? Truly unbelievable.

The Hit.
Link - ( New Window )

to win the 83 NCAA crown for NC State and Jimmy Valvano.
Link - ( New Window )

In comment 15136151 Greg from LI said:

Quote:

....what is THE play you think of when you think of that player? To give a less obvious example....I will always remember Andy Pettitte for firing a perfect throw to third base to nab Smoltz at third on a bunt in Game 5 of the 1996 World Series. It was a tense game. Yanks had taken a 1-0 lead, but Smoltz was dominant and they didn't figure to score much more. In the 6th, Smoltz led off with a base hit. Another single followed to give the Braves first and second with no one out. Mark Lemke then bunted a ball back to Pettitte. If Pettitte hadn't made the throw he made, he would have had bases loaded. Instead, third remained empty, and Chipper Jones then hit into a double play to end the threat. Yanks won 1-0. Smoltz said he pitched better in that game than any other of his career, but he lost due in no small part to Pettitte's play.

Greg - Most of the plays that came to my mind fit that criteria for me. And your example for Pettitte is the same one I have for him and was going to include myself.

First goal by Leetch. After losing game 5 and 6, that goal really set the tone for Game 7.

MLB (2) - Otis Nixon's 1992 wall catch and Cabrera Hit/Sid Slide in Game 7 NLCS
Soccer - Iniesta Champions League goal at Stamford Bridge
CFB - Michael Vick's 82-yard TD versus Boston College in 2000

In comment 15136165 Greg from LI said:

Quote:

In comment 15136111 tony stg said: Quote: ... to beat UNCW in the NCAA first round in 2003. Drew Nicholas Buzzer Beater - ( New Window ) There is only one buzzer beater for me, as I'm sure you could guess

Christian Laettner?

In comment 15136266 DCGMan said:

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MLB (2) - Otis Nixon's 1992 wall catch and Cabrera Hit/Sid Slide in Game 7 NLCS Soccer - Iniesta Champions League goal at Stamford Bridge CFB - Michael Vick's 82-yard TD versus Boston College in 2000

I don't actually remember it clearly but your Vick post made me wonder whether some would pick Doug Flutie's Hail Mary.

Eruzione goal in 1980
Manning throw and Tyree catch in Super Bowl
Manning throw and Manningham catch in Super Bowl
Jeter's flip play against A's
Larry Johnson's four point play in playoffs
Mays catch in 1954 World Series
Mantle homer off facade in 1956
Martin's catch in 1052 World Series
Olympic men's 4 by 100 swimming relay victory in 2008

In comment 15136165 Greg from LI said:

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In comment 15136111 tony stg said: Quote: ... to beat UNCW in the NCAA first round in 2003. Drew Nicholas Buzzer Beater - ( New Window ) There is only one buzzer beater for me, as I'm sure you could guess

I would expect nothing less from you Greg. :-) Hope you and yours have been well.

Breaking Theisman Leg. But another play by LT is interception in Detroit on Thanksgiving and his slide in the endzone.

In comment 15136008 Mark from Jersey said:
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Tyree - Helmet

Manningham sideline catch in sb 2011

John Elway 90s Super Bowl going head first into endzone and helicopter spun tackled on 2 yard line

Odell one hand catch

Alan Houston clinch dunk vs heat upset in round 1 of play offs

Daniel Murphy homeruns vs dodgers in Mets World Series run

Knocking out tyson

Floater not dunk

It's not a specific play, but The Drive by Elway.

and there's a steal by Bird
Havlicek stole da ball....
Henderson steals it....

Bob Beamon (Jamaica HS) 1968 Mexico City Long Jump

Lee Evans grinding to a WR in the 440 over great competition at Mexico City.

Roberto Duran's first pro fight in Panama City (was stationed in Panama at the time)

Rumble in the Jungle pay per view

Thrilla in Manilla pay per view

Floyd Patterson leaping left hook left Ingammar Johansson knocked out for over 2 minutes on a tiny black and white TV.

Alexis Arguello vs Aaron Pryor

The War - Hagler Hearns

Bjorn Borg vs McEnroe Wimbledon 1980.

You see in your face defiance and domination in basketball and boxing but rarely see it in baseball. Bob Gibson came to Yankee Stadium in 1964 and sneered and raged his way to an unforgettable victory...ripped their hearts out and that era of Yankee domination was over as they aged in front of our eyes.

Tino Martinez Grand Slam HR in the WS shook the stadium until the mezzanine was moving up and down in the roar. Greatest live moment for it was the first game I took my sons to...what a memory.

DR j behind the basket move vs the 76's.

Starks dunk over MJ.

Bird making a punk out of Isiah Thomas and passing to DJ.

Secretariat Belmont 1973.

Rivera...just Rivera...so many times.

I saw Ted Williams hit a HR at Yankee Stadium the first game my grandfather took me to the Cathedral. (off Whitey Ford).

Bill Johnson in the downhill as the blizzard came in to that Olympics.

Shaun Whites last runs in his three gold medal competitions.

Steffi Grafs iron will and incredible forehand at ground level on a back court at Forest Hills.

The men's Olympic swim team getting off the hotel elevators to go eat after the Nationals in Indianapolis.
- A small boy in a wheelchair with terribly disfigurements (genetic or a childhood fire) holding out a notebook and pen hoping to get an autograph.

Passed by, ignored and in tears...finally last guy came over and knelt on the floor to be eye level.

Watching Michael Phelps wave his teammates to go on while he whispered to this boy and kissed his forehead. Soonthey were both crying. Phelps gently held his hand and rubbed his back and talked to him until he was able to stop crying and even a half smile appeared and then a genuine look of happiness and a crooked smile. Phelps wrote a note anda autograph and then gave his mother his phone number.

For me the greatest glimpse into the power of sports and the importance of moments of kindness.

I have rooted for Michael Phelps ever since. That is my most memorable sports memory

I only get vague recollections....

Some race, I think an Olympic qualifier with Jim Ryun stepping outside to “kick” and tearing by the pack.

Dave Waddle in a hat (I’m not even sure what the reference is here)

The first time I saw Dick Fosbury (ii believe the Montreal Olympics.)

George Forman dancing around with a tiny American flag

Scott whoever doing a backflip in the fun exhibition they do after the medals (he had just won the men’s ice skating) in the Olympics

The last second (which really didn’t exist) of the us-ussr ‘72 basketball gold medal game

Scott Norwood....

In a regular season game which I can't remember which one, I remember leaving my house and going record store shopping thinking "this guy is probably not going anywhere"....

I get to the record store and they turn the game on ; Eli pulls one of his classic 45 yard passes over the middle and whole store erupts in like "YEA!!!". Totally knew Eli was special from that moment.

In the SB vs. Patriots faking the audible on the trick play before half time ; he walks down the line pretending to play call and the ball gets snapped and he catches the TD pass. I knew then that an upset was coming. I guess I hate the Brady patriots more than the eagles lol.

In comment 15136623 Debaser said:

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In the SB vs. Patriots faking the audible on the trick play before half time ; he walks down the line pretending to play call and the ball gets snapped and he catches the TD pass. I knew then that an upset was coming. I guess I hate the Brady patriots more than the eagles lol.

and I hate you more than eagle fans.

Nadia Comaneci’s perfect 10 at the 1976 Olympics.

(My Giants and Mets moments have all been covered on this thread.)

Willis Reed's entrance onto the court just before tip-off, Game Seven, NBA Championship, 1970.

In comment 15136624 Route 9 said:

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In comment 15136623 Debaser said: Quote: In the SB vs. Patriots faking the audible on the trick play before half time ; he walks down the line pretending to play call and the ball gets snapped and he catches the TD pass. I knew then that an upset was coming. I guess I hate the Brady patriots more than the eagles lol. and I hate you more than eagle fans.

maybe you need to take a step back and think about your life. It is just a game. And I can imagine the players think the fans are just as annoying as anything else half the time. if you went to a division 1 college and ever been to a party with any of the football players you would know that you hanging out with the players probably didn't go well. take that and X 5 for the pros

moments, some mentioned in this thread.

Attended the Baltimore Orioles game in 1995 when Cal Ripken broke the Lou Gehrig consecutive game record. He also hit a homer that evening. Special, special night.

Was at the 1998 game in St. Louis when Mark McGwire hit his 62nd home run breaking the old Roger Maris record. It was against the Cubs so Sammy Sosa

Was in the crowd across the lake from 16th green at the 2005 Masters when Tiger chipped in. My favorite moment.

In comment 15136720 chick310 said:

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moments, some mentioned in this thread. Attended the Baltimore Orioles game in 1995 when Cal Ripken broke the Lou Gehrig consecutive game record. He also hit a homer that evening. Special, special night. Was at the 1998 game in St. Louis when Mark McGwire hit his 62nd home run breaking the old Roger Maris record. It was against the Cubs so Sammy Sosa Was in the crowd across the lake from 16th green at the 2005 Masters when Tiger chipped in. My favorite moment.

Got cut off for some reason. Sammy Sosa was there who was going head-to-head with McGwire that whole season with homers. Both were a bit juiced up.

In comment 15136620 Debaser said:

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In a regular season game which I can't remember which one, I remember leaving my house and going record store shopping thinking "this guy is probably not going anywhere".... I get to the record store and they turn the game on ; Eli pulls one of his classic 45 yard passes over the middle and whole store erupts in like "YEA!!!". Totally knew Eli was special from that moment.

In a regular season game that you can't remember... on the "MOST memorable play by a player, Any sport" thread.

From a 1/21. Got it.

but I would add Ray Allen’s 3 poin shot v the Spurs. Down 3 with seconds left, and down 3-2 in the series, Chris Bosh grabs a LeBron miss, gets it to Allen for the tying 3. I have no idea how Allen kept his feet inbounds. Just a tremendous play and shot.

In comment 15136711 Debaser said:

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maybe you need to take a step back and think about your life. It is just a game. And I can imagine the players think the fans are just as annoying as anything else half the time. if you went to a division 1 college and ever been to a party with any of the football players you would know that you hanging out with the players probably didn't go well. take that and X 5 for the pros

Thought about it and after reading your boring explanation, I hate you, and the Eagles even more so!

stoning Pavel Bure on a penalty shot in the finals.

Only one of many great Richter plays, but none bigger.
Link - ( New Window )

93 playoffs, 51 yard HARD running TD,
Loved that.

I was crazy excited as a 10 year old when Chambliss hit the HR against the Royals as well...

Sticking the vault landing on one leg to clinch the team Gold in 1996 (I think)

Norwood miss, McConkey catch off Bavaro tip in XXI and Plax GW catch in in XLVII in that order.

Not a play, but Montana's GW drive vs. Bengals in Super Bowl.

Kobe Bryant, Game 4 of 2000 NBA Finals in OT after Shaq fouled out; Robert Horry's 3 in Game 4 of 02 WCF vs. Kings, Nick Anderson missing 4 straight FTs in Game 1 of '95 Finals, John Paxson hitting GW 3 in Game 6 of '93 Finals...

Sadly, whenever I think of Ewing, I immediately think of his missed finger roll vs. Pacers. I remember thinking at the time, 'I don't think we're ever going to win with Ewing here.' And then the Rat-Riley-leaves for Miami.

In a class by itself. Greatest performance by man or beast.

(Maybe because I was there, but still. ;-)

In comment 15137228 Route 9 said:

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In comment 15136711 Debaser said: Quote: maybe you need to take a step back and think about your life. It is just a game. And I can imagine the players think the fans are just as annoying as anything else half the time. if you went to a division 1 college and ever been to a party with any of the football players you would know that you hanging out with the players probably didn't go well. take that and X 5 for the pros Thought about it and after reading your boring explanation, I hate you, and the Eagles even more so!

Whatevs. This whole gang BS. And I am so sick of this hype around some wimp back. With the exception of Tiki Giants backs were always ready to level someone. And he was a good back who can run up the middle. So Glad Tiki And Otis Anderson criticizing him. I want my backs who can do this...Oh and fits with memorable plays too (Jacobs running over Woodson in the GB Packers Championship game)

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>
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...beating the undefeated Bears on a MNF game when I was a kid and playing ridiculous. Throwing to to like 9 different receivers
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That this thread about memorable plays will include an incredibly un-memorable dupe troll.

Odds that this 1/21 even lasts to 2/21?

In comment 15135537 BamaBlue said:

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in the 1980 Olympic game against the USSR.

Times 100.

A close second is linked below.
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