Tuesday, February 27, 2007

Kareem Abdul-Jabbar

Kareem Abdul-Jabbar (born Ferdinand Lewis Alcindor, Jr. on April 16, in New York City, New York, United States) is an American former professional basketball player and current assistant coach. Typically referred to as Lew Alcindor in his younger days, he changed his name when he converted to Islam.

Considered one of the greatest players of all time, the 7ft-2in (2.18 m) Abdul-Jabbar played center for UCLA from 1965–69. Later, he played professionally for the Milwaukee Bucks (1969–75) and the Los Angeles Lakers (1975–89), accumulating 38,387 points, the NBA's highest career total. He was famous for his "Skyhook" shot which defenders found virtually impossible to block. His on-court success was superlative, as he won a record six NBA Most Valuable Player Awards, while playing on six NBA championship teams; at UCLA, he played on three NCAA championship teams under coach John Wooden. His high school team won 72 consecutive games and his UCLA teams were an unmatched 88-2.

After a then-record 20 professional seasons in the NBA, Abdul-Jabbar retired from the game in 1989. Following his success as a professional athlete, Abdul-Jabbar has become known as a successful basketball coach, author, and part-time actor.

Former Club
Milwaukee Bucks (1969 – 1975)
Los Angeles Lakers (1975 – 1989)

Sunday, February 25, 2007

Edson Arantes do Nascimento

Edson Arantes do Nascimento, (born October 23 1940 in Três Corações, Brazil), best known by his nickname Pelé, is a former Brazilian football (soccer) player, and is regarded by many as one of the greatest footballers of all time. In his native Brazil, Pelé is hailed as a national hero for his accomplishments and contribution to the game. During his career, he became known as "The King of Football" (O Rei do Futebol) or simply "The King Pelé" (O Rei Pelé). He was given the title Footballer of the Century by FIFA and Athlete of the Century by the International Olympic Committee. He is also a member of the National Soccer Hall of Fame

Pelé began playing for Santos Futebol Clube at just 15, his national team at 16, and won his first World Cup at 17. Pelé's technique and natural athleticism have been universally praised; he was renowned for his unstoppable dribbling and visionary passing, as well as his pace, powerful shot, and an exceptional heading ability, but above all he was an exceptionally prolific goalscorer.

He is the all-time top scorer in the history of the Brazil national team and is the only footballer ever to win three World Cup titles as a player. His famous number 10 shirt has become traditional among creative attacking midfielders and forwards, and many of the sport's great players have since worn it.

Former Club
Santos FC (1956-1974)
New York Cosmos (1975-1977)