I’m sure a lot of us have been following the NBA and NFL seasons lately, and it got me wondering: how many athletes have played in both leagues? I asked a few of my friends this question and received a variety of answers. Some thought the number was much smaller than it actually is, while others thought it was much larger.
My own guess was that the number was low, considering the physical differences between the two sports. You don’t often find many people capable of competing at both a high level in basketball and football. Those who have successfully done it have certainly become legendary over the years.
At first, I thought that the only athletes that have made this remarkable crossover were a select few like Bo Jackson and Deion Sanders. Both of them were true superstars during their glory days, with incredible power and athleticism that enabled them to make history. I mean, who can forget when Bo Jackson hit a MLB combination homerun and throw a football for a touchdown in the same game? Now that’s what I call a showstopper!
In my research, I discovered something that completely floored me; however, these two massive talents are far from the only ones who have jumped between the NFL and the NBA. In fact, a surprisingly large number of pro athletes have given it a go, some even earning championship titles in both leagues.
To be fair, I was amazed that even more athletes have tried, and in some cases, accomplished, the transition between sports. From football superstars like Antonio Gates and Steve Young, to basketball legends like Kobe Bryant and Michael Jordan, these talented players have found success in both sports.
One athlete I was particularly impressed with was Julius Peppers. He was an All-American defensive end in college football before being drafted to the Carolina Panthers in the NFL. He went on to play nine years in the NFL, six of which were Pro Bowl selections. In the midst of his football career, Julius played the 2004-2005 season in the NBA with the Charlotte Bobcats.
It goes to show that athletes’ dedication, perseverance and hard work are really what matters. No matter what sport, there are always those stand-out performers that give their all and inspire the rest of us.
Now, if you’re wondering how many athletes have entered both the NBA and NFL leagues, it’s a surprisingly huge number. There are over thirty athletes that have gone between the two leagues, with more applications being made each year.
Reading up on these inspiring figures has gotten me more excited for the upcoming seasons of both the NBA and NFL. Who knows, maybe a surprise superstar crossover could be in the making! It would certainly liven up the competition and make for some must-see games.