In 1972, Olga Korbut, an unknown young Russian girl, became an overnight superstar in Munich. Thus the power of the Olympics.
The sound isn’t great, but you could hear the great Jim McKay on the call.
In 1972, Olga Korbut, an unknown young Russian girl, became an overnight superstar in Munich. Thus the power of the Olympics.
The sound isn’t great, but you could hear the great Jim McKay on the call.
Just for a little perspective, check out this Jim McKay interview about CBS’ coverage of the 1960 Olympics in Rome.
It almost seems like one step removed from hieroglyphics compared to what we see today.
You can’t help but think about Jim McKay every time there’s an Olympics. He and Roone Arledge helped make the event into a TV spectacle.
In fact, the IOC should give a cut of those billion dollar-plus contract to each of their families. I’m sure CBS Sports president Sean McManus, McKay’s son, would be in favor of that.
Here’s a 1991 interview Bob Costas did with McKay.
Since this year’s All-Star game was a major dud, I thought I would dig up some classic moments that have lasted a lifetime.
Reggie Jackson’s massive homer in Tiger Stadium in 1971.
Bo Jackson’s lead-off homer in the 1989 All-Star game.
Pete Rose running over Ray Fosse to win the 1970 All-Star Game.
Remember the old Mike Douglas Show?
In this vintage clip from July, 1977, the talk show host welcomes Tom Seaver and Pete Rose to the show. The appearance occurred just after the Mets traded Seaver to Cincinnati.
Check out Rose’s attire.
On July 4, 1939, Lou Gehrig made a dramatic farewell at Yankee Stadium. Keep in mind, Gehrig didn’t want to make a speech on that day. He only stepped up to the microphone after some prodding by manager Joe McCarthy.
He then delivered his immortal line.
And here’s the movie version from Pride of the Yankees. Gary Cooper also nailed it.
Harry Caray was prone to a little hyperbole. So don’t quite believe him when he opens his interview with Michael Jordan, wearing a White Sox uniform, by saying, “It is the biggest thrill of my life.”
Still, it was a unique day. Caray interviewed Jordan prior to a Cubs-White Sox exhibition game on April 7, 1994. It was the only game Jordan played in a Major League park. As usual, Jordan rose to the occasion, going 2 for 5, including a double.
Before all the hoopla, LeBron James was just a high school kid with an earring and a big mound of hair.
Actually, he never was a normal kid, given all of his talents that were noticed early on. But a Fox Sports Ohio interview with Kerry Sayers (now in Chicago) gives an interesting early glimpse of a young James as he entered his junior year. He talks about prom and his friends. And he had plenty of confidence.
Terrific to hear the always great Jim McKay on what is (in my mind) the greatest shot in U.S. Open history. Tom Watson’s chip-in on 17 to beat Jack Nicklaus and win the U.S. Open.
OK, LeBron, that was pretty good Thursday. But can you do this?
Showing how it is done in the clutch, here is a montage of Michael Jordan at his best. Pretty incredible stuff. Also, great to hear the great Johnny Kerr celebrating those shots.