The 5 Most Memorable Moments Of 2020
Sports transcended real life this year and, in many cases, led the charge for change.
(Podcast length 6:47 mins - the transcript is below)
2020 - a year unlike any other. Here are the moments to remember, for better or for worse.
Transcript
1. The year started with a punch to the gut when basketball legend Kobe Bryant, his 13-year-old daughter Gianna and seven others died in a morning helicopter crash. The shock wave was felt around the world, impacting the greatest of athletes to the everyday person. Their legend lives on through the Mamba and Mambacita Foundation and their work in making sports accessible to all. We hope in 2021 that Orange County (where the Bryant family still calls home) will continue the tradition of “Kobe Bryant Day” on August 24 (8/24 - his two jersey numbers). In a bittersweet moment, the Lakers won their first championship since the Kobe era this year. THE LEGEND LIVES ON
2. 2020 was a tough year for many, but it was a year filled with milestones for women in sports. From the hiring of Kim Ng by the Miami Marlins as the first-ever female general manager in MLB (Major League Baseball) to Callie Brownson of the Cleveland Browns, who became the first woman to coach an NFL (National Football League) position group during a regular-season game. Brownson again made history when she and Jennifer King, Washington Football Team's full-year coaching intern and NFL official Sarah Thomas were part of the first regular-season game in NFL history to have a female coach on both sidelines and a female official. We can’t leave out DC United (MLS - Major League Soccer) hiring Danita Johnson as president of business operations, making her the first Black woman or man to serve as a team president and one of the highest-ranking female club executives in league history. CAN’T STOP, WON’T STOP
3. The topic that dominated 2020 and the world of sports, COVID-19. We’ll never forget March 11, the day sports stopped when Rudy Gobert of the NBA (National Basketball Association) tested positive for COVID, and it subsequently spread through the league. The sports world will remember the look of shock and disbelief on Mark Cuban’s face when he received notice courtside that the basketball season had been suspended. There were plenty of unknowns that led to a lack of confidence in any sports proceeding this year but led to playing in a bubble for some leagues and cancelled/rescheduled games in others. This year also brought us brilliant acts of COVID kindness from the sports community, new champions and, of course, resilience. WE SHALL PREVAIL
4. After the unexplained death of George Floyd, Brianna Taylor, Jacob Blake and so many countless others, athletes had had enough. The Milwaukee Bucks (NBA) led the movement that stopped sports in protest of the racial injustice in America. The movement that started in Milwaukee quickly spread across the NBA and the sports world. We saw NASCAR’s (National Association for Stock Car Auto Racing) Bubba Wallace become a household name after a noose was found in his garage at a race track. Wallace is the only Black driver on the professional circuit. The drivers came together and it led to changes, including NASCAR outlawing confederate flags at races. Superstars like LeBron James started “More Than A Vote,” a non-partisan organization to combat systemic, racist voter suppression. Their efforts included rallying sporting facilities to become polling places. While there is still a long way to go, leagues, owners and athletes across sports have listened to their communities. They have pledged millions of dollars to support programs, implement best practices and start a movement that will lead our country in the right direction. BETTER TOGETHER
5. While we were all quarantined, we binged watched a lot of TV. On the heels of the “Tiger King” phenomenon came Michael Jordan’s “Last Dance.” Because we were all at home glued to the TV for any sense of normalcy, the production of the series was moved up by a few months and it was a hit. Sports fans and non-sports fans rejoiced in Jordan’s victories and felt the pain of his perils. Since you haven’t made it until you’re a meme, there were plenty of Jordan memes to go around, like the one about him eating an entire pizza himself - and subsequently coming down with food poisoning. If you haven’t seen the series yet, you’re in for a treat. (Also, where have you been)? FOR THE WIN
Sports Curious, presented by Last Night's Game, is here to take the awkward out of the conversation and help you join the sports conversation, even if you don't know the first thing about sports. We breakdown what's happening in sports in an easy-to-understand, fun way without all of the statistics and jargon, so you never have to exit stage left when the chatter at the office, dinner table, or a networking event switches to sports.
You can always catch us between podcasts at www.lastnightsgame.com or on social media. If you love us, make sure to leave us a review wherever you listen to your podcasts.
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Everyday They're Hustlin'
Athletes and the unique ways they make money off the court.
(Podcast length 4:53 - transcript is below)
Athletes make millions for their time spent on the field, but it’s how they parlay that into side hustles that ensures them a comfortable retirement.
Transcript
1. Just because they wear uniforms doesn’t mean these athletes aren’t into fashion. (It just takes them less time to get dressed for work than most of us). Led by Megan Rapinoe, four members of the U.S. Women’s National Soccer Team launched a gender-neutral clothing line earlier this year called Re—inc. On the men’s side, Russell Westbrook is known for his sometimes over-the-top postgame press conference looks. He launched Honor The Gift, featuring athleisure-driven clothing as well as high-end athletic wear called Westbrook XO for Barneys. Other proud owners of a fashion-related business are Serena Williams (Serena), Tony Hawk (Birdhouse and Hawk Clothing), Venus Williams (EleVen) and Cristiano Ronaldo (CR7). FASHION MEETS FITNESS
2. These athletes have an appetite for a return on investment. Enter in pizza. Yes, everyone’s favorite dinner is also a hot investment for these NBA players. If you eat at Blaze Pizza (LeBron James), Pieology (Kevin Durant), 800* (Dwyane Wade) or order from Papa John’s (Shaq) you’re supporting the cause. FAST CASUAL FTW
3. If sports are your life, why not buy part of a team? Diversifying their assets into an NBA (National Basketball Association) team, Larry Fitzgerald of the Arizona Cardinals bought into the Phoenix Suns and Aaron Rodgers owns a share of the Milwaukee Bucks. It seems like everyone joined Will Ferrell in buying a stake in a soccer team. Kevin Durant, Russell Wilson and Ciara, James Harden, Oscar De La Hoya and David Beckham are all partial owners of an MLS (Major League Soccer) team. LeBron James took it to another level investing $6.5M in Premiere League team, Liverpool FC in 2011. IN IT FOR THE GATORADE
4. Even though they’re used to being in the spotlight on the court, these basketball players are behind the scenes when it comes to movies. Chris Paul, Kevin Durant, LeBron James and Steph Curry are all involved in production and entertainment companies that have their hands in movies. You might remember Steph Curry’s most recent work as executive producer of “Jump Shot: The Movie.” (Great movie BTW). ON THE SILVER SCREEN
5. Last year, people watched 6.6 billion hours of esports videos worldwide. Jumping on that trend with their wallets in hand are celebrities from Michael Jordan to Mark Cuban to Alex Rodriguez. These esports teams are so popular that they resemble a race car driver covered in sponsor logos when they play. These players are making a ton of money, with the top three players in the world pulling in $3.16M in prize earnings last year. HOPE IT PAYS DIVIDENDS
Sports Curious presented by Last Night's Game, is here to take the awkward out of conversation and help you join the sports conversation, even if you don't know the first thing about sports. We breakdown what's happening in sports in an easy to understand, fun way without all of the statistics and jargon so you never have to exit stage left when the chatter at the office, dinner table or a networking event switches to sports.
You can always catch us between podcasts at www.lastnightsgame.com or on social media. If you love us, make sure to leave us a review wherever you listen to your podcasts.
Like us? Share us with your friends.
Betting On Sports To Save The Economy
Why your state could fast track sports betting to combat the COVID-driven recession.
(Podcast length 4:17 - transcript is below)
Who would’ve thought an activity that is sometimes frowned upon could save your state’s economy?
Sports Curious presented by Last Night's Game, is here to take the awkward out of conversation and help you join the sports conversation, even if you don't know the first thing about sports. We breakdown what's happening in sports in an easy to understand, fun way without all of the statistics and jargon so you never have to exit stage left when the chatter at the office, dinner table or a networking event switches to sports.
You can always catch us between podcasts at www.lastnightsgame.com or on social media. If you love us, make sure to leave us a review wherever you listen to your podcasts.
Transcript
1. The economic impact of COVID has states across the country reeling from a lack of tax revenue. One solution many states are looking at is fast tracking legal sports betting. The Supreme Court struck down a federal law in 2018 that restricted sports gambling on a state level (with the exception of Nevada that already had legal sports betting). Since then, a handful of states have opened for betting and have achieved a notable revenue boost. HERE’S WHERE YOUR STATE STANDS
2. Despite other states being able to participate in sports betting, Nevada had a record setting year in 2019. The state saw a total of $5.32 billion placed in bets and a record $329 million in revenue, which produced $22.2 million in state tax revenue. Now this won’t replace all of the tax revenues lost, but many states are looking at it as an option because some tax revenue is better than nothing. SEEKING A SOLUTION
3. Now let’s talk a little more about betting to give you some context. The commissioners of the four major sports (baseball, basketball, football and hockey) have met to discuss integrating their leagues with sports betting entities. We've seen some movement on this but concerns over fixing games and gambling addiction are some of the reasons this isn’t an easy decision. NOT A SIMPLE SOLUTION
4. You’ve probably heard of online sites FanDuel or DraftKings. Where they differ from a casino is that those platforms provide you with an opportunity to wager money on a player’s performance in a game instead of the outcome of the game. This is similar to how you would win if you had a fantasy football team. CLEAR AS MUD?
5. The two most popular sporting events to bet on are the Super Bowl and College Basketball’s March Madness tournament. The Super Bowl went on as planned this year with over $6.8 billion wagered on the big game, but March Madness was cancelled. Twice the number of people bet on March Madness compared to the Super Bowl. Last year, Americans wagered $8.5 billion on the tournament and a big chunk of that was bet illegally through activities like office pools or via a bookie. DON’T TELL THE LEGAL DEPT.
Here’s a few resources for you should you want to know more: sports betting 101 and the five things you need to know about fantasy football.
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5 Strange Sports Superstitions
The list starts with lucky shimmery undergarments and ends with Skittles and vodka.
(Podcast length 3:09 - transcript is below)
Superstitions - they’re only strange if they don’t work.
Sports Curious presented by Last Night's Game, is here to take the awkward out of conversation and help you join the sports conversation, even if you don't know the first thing about sports. We breakdown what's happening in sports in an easy to understand, fun way without all of the statistics and jargon so you never have to exit stage left when the chatter at the office, dinner table or a networking event switches to sports.
You can always catch us between podcasts at www.lastnightsgame.com or on social media. If you love us, make sure to leave us a review wherever you listen to your podcasts.
Transcript
1. Anyone who has ever slipped into a pair of Spanx knows a good undergarment is the foundation of success. That brings us to the golden thong. The golden thong was worn by former MLB (Major League Baseball) player Jason Giambi to help him break out of hitting slumps. Rumor has it that said tiny undergarment was left in the lockers of his teammates and they all began to hit well. WASH ME
2. In order to prepare for the World Cup (soccer) England’s Jamie Vardy ditched his habits of nicotine pouches, drinking half a bottle of port wine on the night before a game and his concoction of Skittles and vodka. Although, he drew the line at breaking his good luck gameday routine of three Red Bulls and black coffee. NO ONE IS PERFECT
3. Sidney Crosby of the Pittsburgh Penguins (NHL - National Hockey League) has so many ‘traditions’ that we can’t list them all. Some include wearing the same jock strap for years and not calling or seeing his mom or his sister on gameday because every time he does, he ends up with an injury. PHONE HOME
4. Superstitions are part of soccer superstar Cristiano Ronaldo’s routine. He must be the last one to leave the locker room and he always puts his right foot on the field first. BEST FOOT FORWARD
5. Head coach of the University of Alabama Crimson Tide football team, Nick Saban, fuels his fire with a Little Debbie Oatmeal Crème Pie before each game. DOESN’T THAT BRING YOU BACK TO YOUR CHILDHOOD?
Athletes And Their COVID Acts Of Kindness
Who’s up for some good news?
Instagram: Shaun White
(Podcast length 4:41 - summary is below)
In times of crisis, so many people have stepped up to do what they can to help. Even the smallest acts of kindness have a lasting impact.
Sports Curious presented by Last Night's Game, is here to take the awkward out of conversation and help you join the sports conversation, even if you don't know the first thing about sports. We breakdown what's happening in sports in an easy to understand, fun way without all of the statistics and jargon so you never have to exit stage left when the chatter at the office, dinner table or a networking event switches to sports.
You can always catch us between podcasts at www.lastnightsgame.com or on social media. If you love us, make sure to leave us a review wherever you listen to your podcasts.
Transcript
1. Fanatics founder and Philadelphia 76ers (NBA -National Basketball Association) minority owner Michael Rubin started the All-In Challenge to provide food to those in need – kids, elderly and frontline heroes. So far they have raised over $51 million for COVID relief efforts. Rubin tapped into his famous friends like author and speaker Gary Vaynerchuk and actor Kevin Hart who then challenged their famous friends by donating once in a lifetime raffle and auction items. Some examples include a double date with Ciara and Seattle Seahawks (NFL – National Football league) Russell Wilson, which went for $240,000, New England Patriots (NFL) owner Robert Kraft’s Super Bowl ring (sold for $1.025M) or you could be eaten by a dinosaur in the next Jurassic Park movie (sold for $250k). The list is long and includes something for everyone. SHOPPING FOR GOOD
2. Teams like the Dallas Mavericks (NBA) joined together to provide meals to first responders and help local small businesses at the same time. Players took turns purchasing meals from local restaurants to feed first responders in hospitals, clinics and on the road like paramedics. Mavs owner Mark Cuban took it a step further, reimbursing Mavs staff who purchased meals from local establishments as well as reimbursing the Mavs’ nonprofit partners who fed their volunteers and staff when they chose local. HELPING WHERE IT HURTS
3. Olympic snowboarder and skateboarder Shaun White drove by some kids who were out in their yard skateboarding. The kids had made him a sign asking if he would skateboard with them. Donning a mask, he hopped out and did a little safe distance skateboarding with the neighborhood crew. MAKING MEMORIES
4. With the Summer Olympics postponed, Team USA no longer had to feed its athletes but what to do with the 18,000 pounds of food they already had? They donated the pallets of food to the food bank in Colorado Springs, CO which is home of the United States Olympic & Paralympic Committee. FIGHTING FOOD INSECURITIES
5. Many of us don’t think about the challenges of online schooling as we have access to a computer or a tablet. For so many students, this was one of the big hurdles to overcome when it came to successful home schooling. Russell Westbrook of the Houston Rockets (NBA) donated laptops to Houston area students for online classes. He also delivered meals to nurses in a Los Angeles hospital and provided masks and PPE to hospital workers in hard hit communities. MAKING AN IMPACT
Honorable mentions for athletes like Lionel Messi (soccer), Novak Djokovic (tennis) and Drew Brees (NFL) who along with their colleagues and their leagues, teams and team owners donated millions of dollars to relief efforts. WE ARE STRONGER TOGETHER
5 Sports Teams That Are Saving The Planet
Doing their part for future generations.
Transcript is below.
Superheroes aren’t the only ones to save the world. Here are five teams who are doing their part to save Mother Earth through innovation and one is even adopting a vegan diet.
Sports Curious presented by Last Night's Game, is here to help you join the sports conversation, even if you don't know the first thing about sports. We breakdown what's happening in sports in an easy to understand, fun way without all of the statistics and jargon so you never have to exit stage left when the chatter at the office, dinner table or a networking event switches to sports.
You can always catch us between podcasts at www.lastnightsgame.com.
Transcript
1. The Cleveland Indians (MLB – Major League Baseball) were the first MLB team to install a wind turbine to power their stadium. Their stadium is now 100 percent powered by renewable energy from wind power. BLOWN AWAY
2. The Forest Green Rovers, a soccer team from Western England, are leading the charge to go green. They claim the title as the only vegan football (i.e. soccer) club in the world. Since 2015, there have been no animal products for sale in the stadium. Some of the players eat non-vegan outside of the stadium (and there are paparazzi photos to prove it), but some have adopted the vegan lifestyle. The team is also the world’s first U.N. certified carbon-neutral sports club. NO MEAT PIES FOR YOU
3. Pocono Motor Speedway’s (NASCAR - National Association for Stock Car Auto Racing) green efforts not only benefit the earth but you. The raceway runs completely on solar power and has sheep for lawn mowers but has an industry specific problem – what to do with as many as 600 used tires after a race? Answer – recycle. The recycled residue from old tires is used in everyday items such as portable speed bumps, the anti-fatigue mat in your kitchen or playgrounds. WHERE THE RUBBER HITS THE ROAD
4. The Boston Red Sox (MLB) home field advantage is an urban farm. The rooftop farm generates 5,900 pounds of produce annually to be used in the stadium. BATTING FOR BROCCOLI
5. Mercedes-Benz Stadium, home of the Atlanta Falcons (NFL – National Football League) and Atlanta United (MLS – Major League Soccer), boasts 4,000 solar panels and features a 680,000 gallon cistern that collects rainwater to irrigate vegetation and helps prevent flooding. GREEN WITH ENVY