Great Sports Legends of New York

New York has some of the most famous legends in sports history. These sports professionals became legends through a lifetime of hard work, extreme dedication, achievements and awards, that shine above the rest. Some athletes are recognized as legends through the sports Hall of Fame, who are voted in by a committee. However, there are many sport professionals and athlete legends that don’t get their recognition but still do something extraordinary in their careers.

Joe Pepitone was a Major League Baseball player from 1962 - 1973. He not only has outstanding statistic records, his witty personality gave humor and style to his game. Joe did not make it into the Hall of Fame, but his unique personality and natural talent makes him the legend he is today.

Voted into the Hall of Fame in ‘95, Kareem Abdul-Jabbar, was one of the National Basketball Associations star players. He started his twenty year NBA career with the Bucks and later retired with the Lakers. Kareem’s lifetime achievements go beyond basketball; he is also an actor and bestselling author.

Not all legends are athletes. Vince Lombardi, the Green Bay Packers head coach in 1959, turned around this team's losses into winnings throughout his eight years as head coach. Vince was a high school teacher and coach before becoming Green Bay’s coach at age 45. He entered the Hall of Fame in 1971.

These professionals have touched the lives of many people. Their careers and outstanding life time achievements bring positive influence inside or out of the ball field. They have a very special gift, which makes them the great sports legends of New York.