The sports world has been getting closer and closer to “normal” since a 2020 that saw sports look a lot different due to COVID.
One difference is the NBA playoffs were able to be played in full capacity arenas instead of the bubble from last year. This saw Giannis Antetokounmpo win his first title for the Milwaulkee Bucks. They beat the Phoenix Suns 4-2 and Antetounmpo won Finals MVP after a monster performance.
“It was awesome to see Giannis win his first ring of many. He was so dominant in the playoffs and so were the Suns so I was excited to see that matchup. When the suns went up 2-0, I thought they could win the series, but then Giannis took over and started doing his thing,” junior Blake Bainum said.
The conclusion of the 2020-21 NFL Season saw Tom Brady win his seventh super bowl ring, his first with the Tampa Bay Buccaneers.
“Brady proved he was the GOAT by being able to go to an average team and have them win the Super Bowl in his first season. The Bucs made Patrick Mahomes look more human than anyone else has before,” sophomore Kyle Newsom said.
The Alabama Crimson Tide captured their third CFP title in a domination of Ohio State 52-24 with what some people consider the best offense in college football history. This was highlighted by now NFL starters quarterback Mac Jones, running back Najee Harris, wide receiver Jaylen Waddle, and Heisman-winning wide receiver Devonta Smith.
“Mac Jones was probably the most underrated player in college football last season, but a top quarterback. It obviously didn’t hurt that he had two of the most dynamic players in college football as weapons in Najee Harris and Devonta Smith. The defense was also very talented,” senior Seth Newton said.
2021 also saw titles from Baylor in college basketball, another Olympic win by the United States, the Atlanta Braves, and the Tampa Bay Lightning.