PDF Summary:Got Your Number, by Mike Greenberg

Many key athletes are instantly recognizable by the jersey numbers they wore. In Got Your Number, Mike Greenberg explores the stories behind the iconic numbers and athletes who defined eras, dynasties, rivalries, and revolutions in sports and society.

Greenberg takes readers through the careers of legends like Michael Jordan (23), Jerry Rice (80), and Tom Brady (12)—athletes who managed feats so extraordinary they became synonymous with their jersey numbers. He covers jersey numbers that represented barrier-breaking pioneers for civil rights and gender equality, as well as influential performances that left an enduring cultural impact. Through tales of incredible athletic prowess and off-the-field accomplishments, Greenberg reveals how certain numbers came to embody larger movements for progress.

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• Earl Morrall's performance as a backup quarterback was commendable, but it could be argued that the team's success was more a result of the overall team performance rather than the heroics of any single player.
• The "46 Defense" of the 1985 Chicago Bears was revolutionary, but some might argue that it would be less effective in the modern game due to changes in offensive strategies and rules favoring the offense.
• The 1985 Chicago Bears' success was significant, but critics might point out that they only won one Super Bowl, suggesting that they may not have been able to sustain their dominance over multiple seasons.
• The Pittsburgh Steelers' "Steel Curtain" defense was formidable in the 1970s, but some could argue that the offense, led by Terry Bradshaw, played an equally important role in their success.
• The 1986 New York Mets had an impressive season, but their success could be overshadowed by the off-field issues and controversies that some believe detracted from the team's image and legacy.
• The pitching success of the 1986 Mets was notable, but critics might argue that pitching is just one aspect of the game and that their overall success was due to a combination of factors, including hitting and defense.
• The fact that only Gary Carter from the 1986 Mets was inducted into the Hall of Fame could be seen as an indication that the team's success was not solely due to its collective talent but also to the era and context in which they played.

Sports pioneers shattered traditional boundaries.

Sports figures who broke through societal and racial barriers

Jackie Robinson made history by being the first African American to play in Major League Baseball, donning the number 42.

Jackie Robinson's groundbreaking contribution to the integration of Major League Baseball often overshadows the recognition of his outstanding athletic abilities. Robinson set himself apart as a consistent leader in base thefts during his career and was honored with the title of the National League's Most Valuable Player in 1949, a season marked by his exceptional performance in hitting and swiping bases. For more than ten years, his Dodgers squad secured six league titles and achieved the ultimate triumph in baseball by winning the World Series in 1955.

After retiring, Robinson took on a significant role by actively participating in the civil rights movement. Greenberg highlights Robinson's commitment to social justice and points out that his efforts laid the groundwork for the successes that Martin Luther King Jr. would later achieve. His backing was pivotal in securing the accomplishments. In 1997, Major League Baseball permanently retired Robinson's number 42, honoring his enduring impact on the sport as well as on societal standards.

Sporting the number 12 on his jersey, Jesse Owens bravely confronted the beliefs of Nazi Germany at the 1936 Olympic Games.

Greenberg underscores that the 1936 Berlin Olympics marked a pivotal point for an elite athlete whose individual victories propelled him to become a symbolic representative in the sphere of athletic competition. Owens triumphed by winning the 100-meter dash, capturing the gold in the long jump, dominating the 200-meter dash, and contributing significantly to the team's triumph in the 4 by 100-meter relay.

These victories represented accomplishments that transcended the boundaries of athletic competition. In Nazi Germany, as Hitler looked on, the victories of Owens dispelled the myth of Aryan supremacy. Greenberg points out that Owens had faced prejudice at home as well, having been denied the opportunity to live on campus at Ohio State because of race. The Associated Press paid tribute to Owens by bestowing upon him the title of the foremost track and field athlete of the past half-century.

Pioneers who established a path for the succeeding generation.

Billie Jean King fought valiantly for women's equality in sports, even though her ranking was 73rd.

Billie Jean King's influence on both the athletic world and societal norms is unmatched, as stated by Greenberg. To underscore his point, he highlights that in a 1975 poll, readers of Seventeen magazine ranked her as the female figure they admired most. Life magazine paid tribute to King by including him in the list of the century's hundred most impactful Americans, a recognition that came fifteen years subsequent to the occurrences.

Greenberg documents King's extensive achievements. In 2009, she was honored with the Presidential Medal of Freedom, the highest civilian award in the United States. The 1973 tennis showdown known as the "Battle of the Sexes," which saw King emerge victorious against the vocally chauvinistic Bobby Riggs, drew a live crowd of 30,000 at the Astrodome and an estimated 90 million television viewers. King emphasized the crucial nature of the contest, highlighting that a defeat might have set back advancements by fifty years. The worth attributed to the women's tour, along with all women, would be greatly reduced.

Wearing the number 0 jersey, Pat Summitt made an unmatched impact in the realm of women's basketball.

Greenberg argues that Pat Summitt's influence on women's basketball history is unparalleled. She began her coaching career prior to the establishment of the women's NCAA basketball tournament. During a time when her annual income was less than $9,000 and she arranged donut sales to fund uniform purchases, there were occasions when financial limitations necessitated her resting directly on the gymnasium surfaces of rival teams.

Throughout her career, Summit's steadfast resolve played a pivotal role in elevating women's basketball to new heights of achievement; she guided her teams to triumph after triumph, securing their spot in the NCAA tournament annually from its start and maintaining an unbroken streak of winning campaigns spanning 38 years. She guided 21 All-Americans and ensured all her athletes graduated, while also leading them to triumph in eight national championships. In 2000, she was honored with the Naismith Coach of the Century title, highlighting her considerable influence on women's basketball.

Practical Tips

• You can honor Jackie Robinson's legacy by wearing sports apparel with the number 42 during athletic events or casual outings to spark conversations about his impact on sports and civil rights.
• Wearing number 42 can serve as a tribute and a conversation starter, allowing you to educate others about Robinson's significance. For example, if someone comments on your apparel, you can share a brief story about Robinson's achievements and discuss the importance of diversity and inclusion in sports and beyond.
• Create a visual art piece, like a painting or digital collage, that captures the essence of Jesse Owens' triumphs to celebrate his legacy and promote discussions on racial equality.
• Art has the power to convey strong messages and inspire change. By creating artwork that depicts Owens' victories, you can use it to decorate your home or office, prompting guests or colleagues to inquire about the subject, which can lead to meaningful dialogues about overcoming prejudice and promoting equality.
• Use the stories of Billie Jean King and Pat Summitt to craft motivational letters to young athletes, especially girls, encouraging them to pursue their sports dreams and stand for equality.
• Writing letters to young athletes can have a profound impact on their confidence and aspirations. Share anecdotes of King's and Summitt's perseverance and achievements, emphasizing the importance of determination and equality in sports. You could send these letters to local sports clubs or schools, potentially inspiring the next generation of athletes to break barriers and strive for greatness.

Athletes transcending the limits traditionally linked to their respective sports.

Charismatic figures who became cultural icons

Muhammad Ali, distinguished by the number 0, and his global impact.

Greenberg depicts Muhammad Ali as a figure of unmatched significance in the history of American sports. His influence on cultural discussions regarding race, religion, and warfare extended far beyond his boxing career.

Greenberg's narrative spotlights two legendary 1974 fights involving Ali: one in which he defeated Joe Frazier to earn a chance at the title, and another, famously dubbed "The Rumble in the Jungle," where Ali faced off against George Foreman. Ali's strategy of absorbing punches while backed up to the ropes during the fight with Foreman, culminating in his victory, cemented his status among the elite boxers and elevated him to unparalleled global fame.

Arnold Palmer achieved widespread recognition and secured the 62nd spot in the rankings of popularity.

Arnold Palmer's impact on the sport was profound, with his legacy reaching well beyond his remarkable golfing skills, as Greenberg's narrative illustrates. While he amassed 62 victories on the tour, and seven major championships, it was his charisma that set him apart from other players.

Greenberg bolsters his case by highlighting the golfer's economic achievements, noting how Palmer's business-related earnings, which were not connected to active golfing, amounted to 40 million dollars in 2015, a figure that exceeded his earnings from competitions by a multiple of 22. This, as Greenberg notes, underscores Palmer's remarkable status as a sports legend, a level of recognition achieved by only a select few in the world of athletics.

Athletes become inspirational figures through their human traits.

The jersey bearing the number 21, which was emblematic of Roberto Clemente, represented his commitment to helping others.

Roberto Clemente, an emblematic personality whose impact extended beyond the baseball diamond, played as an outfielder for the Pittsburgh Pirates and earned his place in the Hall of Fame. At the age of thirty-eight, he met with a catastrophic end; his aircraft crashed during a humanitarian mission to provide relief to those affected by the earthquake in Nicaragua, an act that, according to Greenberg, showcased his steadfast dedication to assisting those in need.

Greenberg examines the racial discrimination Clemente faced and explores his profound impact within the realm of baseball in Latin America. He emphasizes that one-fourth of Major League Baseball athletes are of Latin American origin, and Ozzie Guillen compares this person to a pioneering figure who blazed a path for players from that area, similar to the way Jackie Robinson did. Clemente's existence, characterized by his dedication to assisting others, was cut short by a tragic event.

The connection between Gale Sayers and his teammate Brian Piccolo, who was well-known for wearing the number 40 jersey.

Mike Greenberg fondly recalls watching Gale Sayers, the legendary Chicago Bears running back whose exceptional play ensured his enshrinement among the sport's greatest in the Hall of Fame, and highlights that Sayers' record for average yards per game is unmatched in NFL history. He accomplished the exceptional triple play of scoring by running, receiving, and kick return in one match, a feat that Tyreek Hill would not replicate until 2016.

However, the enduring impact of Sayers extends beyond his accomplishments in the sphere of sports. Greenberg highlights the enduring connection between Sayers and his teammate Brian Piccolo, whose life was cut short by cancer in the late 1960s. The television film that poignantly portrayed their relationship was called "Brian's Song." This enthralling story by Greenberg showcases the depth of their connection and portrays Sayers' steadfast nature, extending well beyond the realm of athletic competition.

Other Perspectives

• While Muhammad Ali's impact was indeed significant, it's important to consider that other athletes have also had profound impacts on cultural discussions, and Ali's influence, while unique, was part of a broader movement of athletes engaging in social and political issues.
• Ali's fame was certainly elevated by his victories, but it could be argued that his fame was also due to his personality, eloquence, and political stances, which were as influential as his athletic achievements.
• Arnold Palmer was a charismatic figure, but his popularity and business success might also be attributed to the timing of his career during the television boom, which helped golf become more accessible to the masses.
• Roberto Clemente's humanitarian efforts were indeed laudable, but other athletes have also engaged in significant humanitarian work, which suggests that such efforts are not unique to Clemente, even if his ultimate sacrifice was particularly tragic and notable.
• The impact of Clemente on baseball in Latin America is significant, but it could be argued that baseball's growth in the region is the result of a complex interplay of factors, including other influential players and broader socio-economic trends.
• Gale Sayers' athletic achievements are undisputed, but the idea that his average yards per game record is unmatched may overlook the evolving nature of the game and the different eras in which players have competed.
• The story of Gale Sayers and Brian Piccolo, while moving, is one of many examples of deep friendships and bonds between teammates, and other such relationships may also have had profound impacts on individuals and communities, even if they haven't been as widely publicized.

Exceptional displays of skill and achievement

Sustaining peak performance for the duration of the entire season.

Wilt Chamberlain, donning jersey number 13, etched his name in history by single-handedly amassing a staggering 100 points in one game, a feat that underscored his statistical supremacy.

Greenberg argues that the achievements of Wilt Chamberlain in basketball were so extraordinary that his peer, Jalen Rose, suggested the creation of distinct record books: one to document Chamberlain's remarkable accomplishments and another for the rest of the players. In Greenberg's perspective, Chamberlain's 100-point game stands as the pinnacle, a feat that remains unmatched and probably always will. During that specific time, Chamberlain consistently scored 50.4 points and secured 25.7 rebounds in each contest, playing almost the entirety of every game.

Greenberg highlights Chamberlain's extraordinary statistical records, such as his unparalleled scoring feats in the NBA, the top three seasons for rebounds, his astonishing run of five seasons where he averaged scoring 35 points and pulling down 20 rebounds per game, and an estimated 9,300 shots blocked, a remarkable achievement that wasn't officially tallied until after his retirement. Greenberg firmly believes that Chamberlain stands alone in his basketball prowess.

The extraordinary 1968 season of Bob Gibson is often linked with the numeral 45.

In Greenberg's view, Bob Gibson's pitching in the 1968 season represents the utmost level of supremacy he has ever observed. Mike Greenberg suggests that the extraordinary season of Gibson was so influential that it led to the lowering of the pitcher's mound by the professional baseball league the following year. The author highlights Gibson's exceptional skill as a pitcher, underscoring that his 1.12 ERA is still an unmatched record and emphasizing his extraordinary accomplishment of completing every one of the eleven games in that season, during which he allowed only three runs.

Greenberg highlights Gibson's remarkable performance in the 1968 World Series, setting a new benchmark with 35 strikeouts and eclipsing his own previous best from four years earlier. During the opening match of the series, Gibson achieved a lasting milestone by fanning seventeen hitters.

Athletes known for extending the limits of human achievement.

Michael Phelps, celebrated for his unmatched achievements, occupies the twenty-eighth position in the Olympics.

Greenberg is of the opinion that in the world of sports, no other athlete from any discipline has attained a level of dominance comparable to that achieved by Michael Phelps. He garnered an astounding total of 28 Olympic medals, a feat that seems almost unbreakable. Greenberg highlights Phelps' remarkable physical traits, such as his expansive wingspan and substantial extremities, suggesting that his physique predestined him for aquatic success.

Greenberg details Phelps's impressive achievements, highlighting his unprecedented collection of eight gold medals at the 2008 Beijing Olympics, his unparalleled series of wins in the 200-meter medley at four distinct Olympic Games, his three consecutive Olympic victories in the 100-meter butterfly, his remarkable count of twenty-three gold medals which exceeds the sum of any two other Olympic athletes, and his setting of 39 new world records. Phelps' supremacy within the realm of competitive swimming is indisputable.

Eliud Kipchoge, donning the number 5 bib, completed a marathon in less than two hours.

Greenberg emphasizes the significance of Kipchoge's marathon achievement by likening it to the historic event of Roger Bannister breaking the four-minute barrier for a mile run. Greenberg explores the extraordinary feat of sustaining a speed of 4:34 per mile for the entire marathon, a triumph that is credited to the exceptional runner Eliud Kipchoge.

Greenberg emphasizes Kipchoge's modesty and his ambition to motivate people, pointing out his upbringing in a humble village in Kenya where he triumphed over difficult situations. He notes that Kipchoge developed a routine of grinning in response to discomfort, a tactic to propel himself onward. Greenberg argues that Kipchoge’s overall dominance and inspirational story deserve recognition for redefining the limits of human achievement.

Other Perspectives

• While Wilt Chamberlain's 100-point game is a remarkable achievement, it could be argued that it occurred during an era when the level of competition and defensive strategies were different from today, possibly making such a feat less likely in the modern game.
• The suggestion of separate record books for Chamberlain could be seen as unnecessary, as all players' achievements are contextual and can be compared across eras with consideration of their respective circumstances.
• Chamberlain's statistical dominance, while impressive, might overshadow other aspects of basketball such as teamwork, defense, and versatility, which are also critical to a player's overall impact on the game.
• Bob Gibson's exceptional 1968 season, while undoubtedly dominant, was also a product of what is known as the "Year of the Pitcher," where offensive numbers across the league were down, potentially inflating the perceived dominance of pitchers that season.
• The lowering of the pitcher's mound following Gibson's 1968 season suggests that his performance must be viewed within the context of the prevailing rules and conditions, which were subsequently deemed to give pitchers too much of an advantage.
• Michael Phelps' Olympic medal record is extraordinary, but it's worth noting that swimming offers more opportunities for medals than most other sports, which could be considered when comparing his achievements to those of athletes in sports with fewer events.
• Phelps' physical traits, while advantageous, do not diminish the hard work and dedication required to achieve his level of success, but they do raise questions about the role of natural advantages in sport.
• Eliud Kipchoge's sub-two-hour marathon was achieved under specially arranged conditions that are not comparable to standard marathon races, which include pacesetters, a flat course, and other optimized conditions, and thus is not recognized as an official world record.
• Kipchoge's success, while inspirational, also brings to light the broader conversation about the role of technology and innovation in sport, such as the advanced footwear he used, which some argue gives runners an unfair advantage.

Athletes wield a significant influence on both culture and society.

Athletes emerged as emblems of change within society.

Muhammad Ali, symbolized by the numeral zero, was a staunch opponent of the Vietnam conflict.

Greenberg praises Muhammad Ali for his impact on altering societal perceptions regarding race, religion, and warfare, extending beyond merely the realm of sports. Greenberg is of the opinion that the choice made by the famous boxer to refuse involvement in the Vietnam War marked a pivotal moment that highlighted his commitment to social justice and turned him into a symbol of resistance to oppression.

Greenberg notes that Ali faced severe criticism and lost his championship title due to his position. His unwavering commitment in the face of obstacles and his strict observance of his values solidified his legendary reputation around the globe. Ali's unwavering commitment to his beliefs inspired many people to support the pursuit of justice and equality.

Robinson, renowned for his emblematic number 42, played a pivotal role in propelling the civil rights movement forward.

Greenberg honors the lasting impact of Jackie Robinson, highlighting his courage and determination in dismantling the racial barriers that revolutionized both baseball as a sport and the societal tapestry of America. Robinson confronted racism, prejudice, and segregation, enduring unspeakable insults and threats as he paved the way for future generations.

Greenberg chronicles Robinson's rise to a pivotal position of leadership, during which he joined forces with Martin Luther King Jr. to champion the cause of equality and justice within the civil rights movement. In 1997, Major League Baseball honored his profound impact on sports and society by permanently retiring jersey number 42.

Athletes receive acclaim for inspiring others through their exemplary conduct and qualities of leadership.

Hank Aaron, distinguished by the number 44 on his jersey, exhibited exceptional poise in the face of adversity.

Hank Aaron is renowned for his achievement of breaking Babe Ruth's home run record during his twenty-three-year career with the Braves in Milwaukee and Atlanta, all while enduring a significant amount of racism and numerous threats to his life. Greenberg suggests that Aaron's baseball legacy was cemented through his extraordinary resilience when facing tremendous pressure.

Greenberg highlights that Aaron's renown extends beyond his home run accomplishments, reflecting a wider array of his athletic talents. Aaron consistently demonstrated his skill at the plate, maintaining a streak of at least 20 home runs across two decades. He has consistently demonstrated a remarkable ability to connect with the pitch, highlighted by the fact that he has never had a season where he struck out a hundred times or more. Aaron still maintains the all-time Major League Baseball records for the highest number of runs batted in, total bases, and hits that went for extra bases. He is unique in maintaining all-star status for 21 consecutive years.

Billie Jean King, a passionate advocate for gender equality in athletics,

Billie Jean King's lasting legacy as a transformative figure in women's athletics continues to mold the culture of sports and societal expectations across various generations. She confronted societal expectations, dismantled obstacles, and championed the cause of equal opportunity. Her commitment to impartiality transformed perceptions of women in sports and reshaped the professional athletic arena.

Greenberg praises her pivotal role in establishing the Women's Tennis Association and her unwavering support for equal pay in women's professional tennis. In 1973, as a result of this dispute, the U.S. Open set a pioneering standard for major tennis competitions by offering the same amount of prize money to both female and male participants.

Other Perspectives

• Athletes may have influence, but their impact on culture and society is often limited by the scope of their sport and the duration of their career.
• While Muhammad Ali did become a symbol of resistance, not everyone agreed with his methods or his stance on the Vietnam War, reflecting a divided society with varying opinions on activism in sports.
• Ali's refusal to participate in the Vietnam War was controversial and some may argue that it was more divisive than unifying at the time.
• Jackie Robinson's role in the civil rights movement was significant, but it's important to recognize that he was one of many figures contributing to the movement, and societal change was the result of a collective effort.
• Hank Aaron's resilience in the face of racism is commendable, but attributing societal change to his achievements may overstate the influence of sports figures on broader social issues.
• While Billie Jean King made significant strides for gender equality in tennis, the broader landscape of gender equality in sports remains uneven, with many sports still struggling with disparities in pay, media coverage, and opportunities.
• The establishment of the Women's Tennis Association was a milestone, but it didn't immediately resolve all issues of gender inequality in sports, indicating that progress often requires sustained effort beyond initial breakthroughs.