1987 Sports Events — Verified Historical Highlights

1987 Sports Events — Verified Historical Highlights | TakeMeBack.to

01 Jan 53rd Orange Bowl: Oklahoma's victory: On January 1, 1987, the University of Oklahoma Sooners defeated the Arkansas Razorbacks in the 53rd Orange Bowl, securing a victory in the college football postseason game. source: upi.com
02 Jan Penn State defeats Miami in 1987 Fiesta Bowl to claim national championship: On January 2, 1987, the No. 2 Penn State Nittany Lions defeated the No. 1 Miami Hurricanes 14-10 in the Fiesta Bowl, securing their second national title in five years. The game was marked by a strong defensive performance from Penn State, which intercepted Miami's Heisman Trophy-winning quarterback Vinny Testaverde five times. The decisive play occurred with nine seconds remaining when linebacker Pete Giftopoulos intercepted Testaverde's pass on fourth-and-goal, preserving the victory. source: fiestabowl.org
04 Jan Jack Martin, English cricketer, dies at 69: Jack Martin, an English amateur cricketer who played in one Test match for the England cricket team in 1947, died on January 4, 1987, at the age of 69 in Woolwich, London. Martin had a 15-year career in first-class cricket, primarily with Kent County Cricket Club, and served as a battery commander in the Royal Artillery during World War II. source: en.wikipedia.org
07 Jan Kapil Dev becomes first Indian pacer to take 300 Test wickets: On January 7, 1987, during the third Test against Sri Lanka in Cuttack, Kapil Dev achieved his 300th Test wicket by dismissing Rumesh Ratnayake. This milestone made him the first Indian fast bowler to reach 300 Test wickets. source: espncricinfo.com
08 Jan P.G. Joshi, Indian cricketer, passes away: Padmanabh Govind 'Nana' Joshi, an Indian cricketer who played 12 Test matches between 1951 and 1960, passed away on January 8, 1987, in Pune, Maharashtra, India. source: en.wikipedia.org
10 Jan César Cielo - Brazilian Olympic Swimmer: César Augusto Cielo Filho, born on January 10, 1987, in Santa Bárbara d'Oeste, São Paulo, Brazil, is a retired Brazilian swimmer renowned for his sprint freestyle and butterfly events. He is the most successful Brazilian swimmer in history, having won three Olympic medals, including a gold in the 50-meter freestyle at the 2008 Beijing Olympics, and six individual World Championship gold medals. Cielo holds the world record in the 50-meter freestyle (long course) and was inducted into the International Swimming Hall of Fame in September 2023. source: en.wikipedia.org
11 Jan Giants Stadium hosts record crowd for NFC Championship: On January 11, 1987, Giants Stadium in East Rutherford, New Jersey, set an NFL attendance record with 76,633 spectators for the NFC Championship game between the New York Giants and the Washington Redskins. The Giants won 17-0, advancing to Super Bowl XXI. source: upi.com
13 Jan Marc Staal: Canadian Ice Hockey Player Profile: Marc Staal, born on January 13, 1987, in Thunder Bay, Ontario, is a Canadian professional ice hockey defenseman. He was drafted 12th overall by the New York Rangers in the 2005 NHL Draft and played 17 seasons in the NHL, also representing the Detroit Red Wings, Florida Panthers, and Philadelphia Flyers. Staal retired in September 2024 and joined the Rangers as a player development assistant. source: nhl.com
14 Jan Catfish Hunter and Billy Williams elected to Baseball Hall of Fame: On January 14, 1987, the Baseball Writers' Association of America elected pitcher Jim 'Catfish' Hunter and outfielder Billy Williams to the Baseball Hall of Fame. Hunter, known for his time with the Oakland Athletics and New York Yankees, was recognized for his pitching prowess and leadership. Williams, celebrated for his tenure with the Chicago Cubs, was honored for his consistent hitting and durability. source: washingtonpost.com
15 Jan Larry Bird honored with major sports awards: On January 15, 1987, Larry Bird was awarded both Man of the Year by The Sporting News and Athlete of the Year by the Associated Press, marking the first time any athlete had received both honors simultaneously. This recognition highlighted Bird's exceptional performance and leadership during the 1986-87 NBA season, where he led the Boston Celtics to an NBA Championship. source: celticslife.com
17 Jan Birth of Oleksandr Usyk: Oleksandr Usyk, a Ukrainian professional boxer and former undisputed cruiserweight champion, was born on January 17, 1987. He is known for his technical skills and has achieved significant success in the heavyweight division as well. Usyk's career highlights include winning multiple world titles and an Olympic gold medal in 2012. source: britannica.com
20 Jan Tom Dollery, English cricketer, passes away at 72: Horace Edgar 'Tom' Dollery, an English cricketer who played for the England team and Warwickshire County Cricket Club, died on January 20, 1987, in Edgbaston, Birmingham, England, at the age of 72. source: en.wikipedia.org
25 Jan New York Giants win Super Bowl XXI against Denver Broncos: On January 25, 1987, the New York Giants secured their first Super Bowl title by defeating the Denver Broncos 39-20 in Super Bowl XXI at the Rose Bowl in Pasadena, California. Quarterback Phil Simms was named the game's Most Valuable Player after completing 22 of 25 passes for 268 yards and three touchdowns, setting Super Bowl records for completion percentage (88%) and consecutive completions (10). source: apnews.com
26 Jan Hart Foundation wins WWF Tag Team Championship: On January 26, 1987, during a WWF Superstars taping in Tampa, Florida, The Hart Foundation (Bret Hart and Jim Neidhart) defeated The British Bulldogs (Davey Boy Smith and The Dynamite Kid) to win the WWF Tag Team Championship. The match was marked by interference from manager Jimmy Hart, who struck Dynamite Kid with a megaphone before the match began, and referee Danny Davis, who allowed the Hart Foundation to double-team Smith, leading to their victory. source: en.wikipedia.org
27 Jan The Midnight Rockers win AWA World Tag Team Championship: On January 27, 1987, The Midnight Rockers, Marty Jannetty and Shawn Michaels, defeated Buddy Rose and Doug Somers to capture the AWA World Tag Team Championship in St. Paul, Minnesota. source: gerweck.net
29 Jan Spencer Clark: American race car driver: Spencer Clark was an American stock car racing driver born on January 29, 1987, in Las Vegas, Nevada. He began his racing career in Nevada's short tracks, earning the Young Lions National title in 2001. In 2003, he competed in the Mechanix Wear SpeedTruck Series, securing three pole positions. The following year, he was named Rookie of the Year in the late model series at Las Vegas Motor Speedway. Clark made his NASCAR West Series debut in 2005, participating in five races, and in 2006, he made his Busch Series debut at Las Vegas, finishing 35th in the Sam's Town 300. Tragically, on May 21, 2006, Clark died in a truck accident near Albuquerque, New Mexico, at the age of 19. source: en.wikipedia.org
01 Feb 1987 NFL Pro Bowl: AFC defeats NFC 10-6: The 1987 NFL Pro Bowl, held on February 1, 1987, at Aloha Stadium in Honolulu, Hawaii, saw the AFC team defeat the NFC 10-6. The game's Most Valuable Player was Reggie White of the Philadelphia Eagles. The event was attended by 50,101 spectators and broadcast on ABC. source: en.wikipedia.org
02 Feb Dennis Leonard announces retirement from baseball: On February 2, 1987, Dennis Leonard, a right-handed pitcher for the Kansas City Royals, announced his retirement from Major League Baseball. Leonard, 35, had a notable career with the Royals, achieving a 144-106 record over 12 seasons and winning 20 or more games three times. His decision to retire was influenced by a series of knee injuries, including a ruptured patellar tendon in 1983, which required multiple surgeries and extensive rehabilitation. source: upi.com
03 Feb MLB Trade: Reardon to Twins: The Montreal Expos traded pitcher Jeff Reardon to the Minnesota Twins in exchange for Neal Heaton, a significant player exchange in Major League Baseball during the 1987 season.
04 Feb Lucie Šafářová - Czech tennis player profile: Lucie Šafářová, born on February 4, 1987, in Brno, Czechoslovakia (now Czech Republic), is a retired professional tennis player. She achieved a career-high singles ranking of world No. 5 and was ranked No. 1 in doubles. Šafářová won seven singles titles and 15 doubles titles, including five Grand Slam doubles titles with partner Bethanie Mattek-Sands. She retired from professional tennis in 2019. source: en.wikipedia.org
06 Feb Jill Trenary wins US Figure Skating Championship: Jill Trenary secured the ladies' singles title at the 1987 U.S. Figure Skating Championships held in January 1987 at the Tacoma Dome in Tacoma, Washington. source: en.wikipedia.org
07 Feb Brian Boitano wins 1987 U.S. Figure Skating Championships: On February 7, 1987, Brian Boitano secured the men's singles title at the U.S. Figure Skating Championships held in Tacoma, Washington. He achieved first place in all three segments: compulsory figures, short program, and free skate. This victory marked his third consecutive national title, following wins in 1985 and 1986. source: upi.com
08 Feb 1987 NBA All-Star Game: West defeats East 154-149 in overtime: The 1987 NBA All-Star Game, held on February 8, 1987, at Seattle's Kingdome, saw the Western Conference defeat the Eastern Conference 154-149 in overtime. Seattle SuperSonics' Tom Chambers was named MVP after scoring 34 points and grabbing four rebounds. Magic Johnson contributed 13 assists and seven rebounds, while Rolando Blackman added 29 points off the bench. The game set All-Star records for combined points (303) and free throws made (71). source: nba.com
11 Feb England Wins World Series Cup: England defeats Australia 2-0 in the World Series Cup, demonstrating their sporting prowess and competitive spirit in international cricket.
13 Feb Death of M.L. 'Curly' Page, New Zealand Cricket Captain: Milford Laurenson 'Curly' Page, a prominent New Zealand cricketer and rugby union player, passed away in Christchurch on February 13, 1987, at the age of 84. Born on May 8, 1902, in Lyttelton, New Zealand, Page was renowned for his dual-sport prowess, representing New Zealand in both cricket and rugby. He captained the New Zealand cricket team during their 1937 tour to England, leading them in seven Test matches. In rugby, he played as a half-back for the All Blacks in 1928. Page's contributions to New Zealand's sporting history have left a lasting legacy. source: en.wikipedia.org
14 Feb Record NBA crowd at Detroit Pistons game: On February 14, 1987, the Detroit Pistons hosted the Philadelphia 76ers at the Pontiac Silverdome, drawing a record crowd of 52,745 fans. The Pistons won the game 125-107, with Joe Dumars scoring six of his 20 points during a crucial third-quarter run. This attendance record was surpassed less than a year later, on January 29, 1988, when 61,983 fans attended a Pistons game against the Boston Celtics at the same venue. source: washingtonpost.com
15 Feb Nikolay Gulyayev sets 1,500m speed skating world record at 1:52.70: At the 1987 World Allround Speed Skating Championships in Heerenveen, Netherlands, Soviet skater Nikolay Gulyayev set a new world record in the men's 1,500 meters with a time of 1:52.70. This event marked the first international skating tournament held in an indoor stadium, resulting in nine world records and 93 personal records being set. source: upi.com
17 Feb Don Mattingly wins record-breaking salary arbitration: On February 17, 1987, New York Yankees first baseman Don Mattingly won a salary arbitration case, securing a $1,975,000 contract for the season. This award set a new record for the highest salary ever granted through baseball's arbitration process at that time. Mattingly had an outstanding 1986 season, batting .352 with 31 home runs and 113 RBIs, leading the American League in slugging percentage at .573. source: upi.com
19 Feb Vida Blue retires from Oakland Athletics: On February 19, 1987, veteran left-hander Vida Blue announced his retirement from Major League Baseball, ending his tenure with the Oakland Athletics. Blue, 37, had signed a $300,000 contract with the A's a month prior and was expected to be a starting pitcher for the upcoming season. His decision to retire was reportedly influenced by a positive drug test for unspecified substances, as reported by the San Francisco Examiner. Blue had previously faced legal issues related to drug use, including a federal prison sentence in 1984 for cocaine possession. Despite these challenges, he had a distinguished career, including three World Series championships with the Athletics from 1972 to 1974 and six All-Star selections. source: upi.com
22 Feb Bruno Marie-Rose sets indoor 200m world record: On February 22, 1987, French sprinter Bruno Marie-Rose set a world indoor record of 20.36 seconds in the 200 meters at the European Indoor Track and Field Championships in Liévin, France. Despite a slight knee injury, Marie-Rose secured the gold medal, surpassing the previous record of 20.52 seconds set by Italy's Stefano Tilli in 1985. source: washingtonpost.com
23 Feb Dick Howser resigns as Royals manager due to health issues: On February 23, 1987, Dick Howser, manager of the Kansas City Royals, resigned after two brain surgeries in five months. He cited fatigue and the demands of managing as reasons for his decision, stating he needed more time to rest. Billy Gardner, the third-base coach, was appointed as his successor. source: washingtonpost.com
24 Feb Kareem Abdul-Jabbar scores 36,000th career point: On February 24, 1987, Los Angeles Lakers center Kareem Abdul-Jabbar became the first NBA player to reach 36,000 career points. In a game against the Phoenix Suns, he scored 19 points, leading the Lakers to a 97-93 victory. This milestone underscored Abdul-Jabbar's enduring impact on the sport. source: washingtonpost.com
25 Feb NCAA suspends SMU football program for 1987 season: On February 25, 1987, the NCAA imposed severe sanctions on Southern Methodist University's (SMU) football program, including canceling the 1987 season, banning home games for the 1988 season, reducing scholarships, and extending probation until 1990. These penalties were the result of repeated major violations, including illicit payments to players, marking the first time the NCAA had canceled a football season for such infractions. source: washingtonpost.com
01 Mar Jane Geddes wins Women's Kemper Open: On March 1, 1987, Jane Geddes secured her third LPGA Tour victory by winning the Women's Kemper Open in Hawaii. She finished the tournament with a score of 276 (−12), defeating Cathy Gerring in a playoff. source: en.wikipedia.org
03 Mar Ray Dandridge elected to Baseball Hall of Fame by Veterans Committee: On March 3, 1987, Ray Dandridge, a standout third baseman in the Negro Leagues, was elected to the Baseball Hall of Fame by the Veterans Committee. Dandridge, born in Richmond, Virginia, in 1913, was renowned for his exceptional defensive skills and consistent batting. Despite his prowess, he never played in Major League Baseball due to the racial barriers of his time. He was inducted into the Hall of Fame on July 26, 1987. source: baseballhall.org
07 Mar Mike Tyson unifies heavyweight boxing titles by defeating James 'Bonecrusher' Smith: On March 7, 1987, Mike Tyson secured a unanimous decision victory over James 'Bonecrusher' Smith at the Las Vegas Hilton, unifying the WBC and WBA heavyweight titles. This win marked a significant milestone in Tyson's career, as he became the youngest fighter to hold multiple heavyweight titles simultaneously. source: espn.com
08 Mar 1987 IAAF World Indoor Championships held in Indianapolis: The inaugural IAAF World Indoor Championships took place from March 6 to March 8, 1987, at the Hoosier Dome in Indianapolis, USA. The event featured 24 disciplines, with athletes from 85 countries participating. Notably, Stefka Kostadinova set a new indoor world record in the women's high jump by clearing 2.05 meters on March 8. source: gulfnews.com
11 Mar Wayne Gretzky reaches 1,500 NHL points milestone: On March 11, 1987, Wayne Gretzky became the fourth player in NHL history to reach 1,500 career points. He achieved this milestone in his 620th game, contributing a goal and three assists in the Edmonton Oilers' 6-3 victory over the Detroit Red Wings. source: gretzkyfacts.blogspot.com
12 Mar World Ladies Figure Skating Championship: Katarina Witt from East Germany (German Democratic Republic) claimed victory in the World Ladies Figure Skating Championship held in Cincinnati.
14 Mar Katarina Witt wins World Figure Skating Championship in 1987: On March 14, 1987, East German figure skater Katarina Witt reclaimed her World Figure Skating Championship title in Cincinnati, USA. She delivered a technically superior and artistically refined freestyle program, landing five clean triple jumps, two of which were in combination with doubles. This performance secured her victory over American skater Debi Thomas, who had won the previous year. source: upi.com
15 Mar New Zealand defeats West Indies in Jeremy Coney's final Test: On March 15, 1987, New Zealand secured a five-wicket victory over the West Indies in the third Test at Lancaster Park, Christchurch. This match marked the conclusion of Jeremy Coney's Test career, with the veteran captain receiving a rousing ovation from the crowd. source: espncricinfo.com
17 Mar Sunil Gavaskar concludes legendary Test cricket career: Sunil Gavaskar, one of India's most celebrated cricketers, retired from Test cricket in March 1987 after a distinguished 16-year career. He was the first player to score 10,000 runs in Test matches, amassing 10,122 runs with an average of 51.12. Gavaskar's final Test match was against Pakistan in Bangalore, where he scored 96 runs in his last innings. source: en.wikipedia.org
19 Mar Bonnie Blair Breaks Speed Skating World Record: American speed skater Bonnie Blair achieved a remarkable world record in the 500-meter event, completing the distance in 39.43 seconds and demonstrating extraordinary speed and skill.
21 Mar Ruud Gullit joins AC Milan for world record fee: On March 21, 1987, Dutch midfielder Ruud Gullit transferred from PSV Eindhoven to AC Milan for a then-world record fee of £6 million. His arrival, alongside fellow Dutch international Marco van Basten, marked the beginning of a new era of success for Milan, culminating in multiple Serie A titles and European Cups. source: thenationalnews.com
22 Mar Betsy King wins LPGA Circle K Tucson Open: Betsy King secured her first victory of the 1987 LPGA Tour season by winning the Circle K Tucson Open on March 22, 1987. She finished with a score of 281 (−7), two strokes ahead of runner-up Jan Stephenson. This win marked a significant achievement in King's career, contributing to her successful season. source: en.wikipedia.org
24 Mar Western Australia wins Sheffield Shield 1986–87: Western Australia secured the Sheffield Shield title for the 1986–87 season by finishing first on the points table. The final match against Victoria, held from March 20 to 24, 1987, at the W.A.C.A. Ground in Perth, ended in a draw. Despite the draw, Western Australia clinched the championship due to their superior performance throughout the season. source: espncricinfo.com
26 Mar Hyderabad Wins Ranji Trophy: In a significant cricket match, Hyderabad defeated Delhi on the first innings to claim the prestigious Ranji Trophy, a premier domestic cricket championship in India.
29 Mar NCAA Women's Basketball Championship: The NCAA Women's Basketball Championship took place on March 29, 1987, featuring top collegiate teams competing for the title. This event highlighted the growing popularity and competitiveness of women's sports in the United States. source: ncaa.com
30 Mar Indiana wins 1987 NCAA Men's Basketball Championship: On March 30, 1987, the Indiana Hoosiers secured their fifth national title by defeating the Syracuse Orangemen 74-73 in the NCAA championship game. The game was held at the Louisiana Superdome in New Orleans, Louisiana. Keith Smart was named the tournament's Most Outstanding Player after scoring 21 points, including the decisive game-winning shot in the final seconds. source: ncaa.com
02 Apr Dwight Gooden enters drug rehabilitation for cocaine use: On April 2, 1987, New York Mets pitcher Dwight Gooden entered the Smithers Alcoholism and Drug Treatment Center in New York City to undergo evaluation and treatment for cocaine use. This decision followed a positive cocaine test during spring training, which was revealed on April 1, 1987. Gooden's voluntary admission to the treatment center was aimed at avoiding a suspension by Baseball Commissioner Peter Ueberroth. source: upi.com
03 Apr Cubs trade Eckersley to Athletics: On April 3, 1987, the Chicago Cubs traded pitcher Dennis Eckersley and infielder Dan Rohn to the Oakland Athletics for minor league players Brian Guinn, Mark Leonette, and Dave Wilder. Eckersley transitioned to a relief role with the A's, becoming a Hall of Fame closer and significantly impacting bullpen usage in baseball. source: baseballhall.org
05 Apr Betsy King wins Nabisco Dinah Shore Golf Championship: Betsy King secured her first major title at the 1987 Nabisco Dinah Shore, held at Mission Hills Country Club in Rancho Mirage, California. She triumphed over Patty Sheehan in a sudden-death playoff, clinching victory with a par on the second extra hole. King's final round score of 68 tied her with Sheehan at 283, leading to the playoff. source: vault.si.com
06 Apr Sugar Ray Leonard defeats Marvin Hagler in a controversial decision: On April 6, 1987, Sugar Ray Leonard faced Marvin Hagler in a highly anticipated boxing match. Leonard won by a split decision, a result that sparked significant debate among fans and analysts regarding the fairness of the judges' scoring. This fight is often remembered for its intensity and the contrasting styles of the two legendary fighters. source: espn.com
07 Apr Rick Mahler ties National League Opening Day shutout record: On April 7, 1987, Atlanta Braves pitcher Rick Mahler threw a three-hit shutout against the Philadelphia Phillies, leading the Braves to a 6-0 victory. This performance marked Mahler's third Opening Day shutout, tying a National League record previously set by Rip Sewell and Chris Short. Mahler's dominance on Opening Day was notable, as he pitched to an impressive 0.92 ERA in five career starts on this occasion. source: sabr.org
08 Apr Royston Drenthe born in Rotterdam, Netherlands: Royston Ricky Drenthe, a Dutch former professional footballer, was born on April 8, 1987, in Rotterdam, Netherlands. He played primarily as a left winger and left-back during his career. source: en.wikipedia.org
09 Apr Wayne Gretzky's record-breaking performance in Stanley Cup Playoffs: On April 9, 1987, Wayne Gretzky led the Edmonton Oilers to a 13-3 victory over the Los Angeles Kings in Game 2 of the Smythe Division Semifinals. He scored a goal and tied the NHL single-game playoff record with six assists, surpassing Jean Béliveau to become the all-time leading playoff scorer with 177 points. source: upi.com
12 Apr Larry Mize wins 1987 Masters Tournament in Augusta: On April 12, 1987, Augusta native Larry Mize secured his only major championship victory at the 51st Masters Tournament. In a sudden-death playoff, Mize chipped in from 140 feet on the 11th hole to defeat Greg Norman and Seve Ballesteros, becoming the first and only winner of the Masters from Augusta. source: bbc.com
13 Apr Padres hit back-to-back-to-back home runs in home opener: On April 13, 1987, during their home opener at Jack Murphy Stadium, the San Diego Padres set a major league record by having the first three batters—Marvell Wynne, Tony Gwynn, and John Kruk—hit consecutive solo home runs off San Francisco Giants starter Roger Mason. Despite this historic feat, the Padres lost the game 13–6. source: mlb.com
16 Apr Michael Jordan scores 61 points against Atlanta Hawks: On April 16, 1987, Michael Jordan of the Chicago Bulls scored 61 points in a game against the Atlanta Hawks, matching his previous 61-point performance from March 4, 1987, against the Detroit Pistons. In this game, Jordan also set an NBA record by scoring 23 consecutive points, contributing to the Bulls' 117-114 loss to the Hawks. source: basketball-reference.com
17 Apr Julius Erving becomes third NBA player to score 30,000 points: On April 17, 1987, Julius Erving became the third player in NBA history to reach 30,000 career points. In his final regular-season home game with the Philadelphia 76ers, Erving scored 38 points in a 115-111 loss to the Indiana Pacers, achieving the milestone with a fadeaway jumper in the third quarter. source: washingtonpost.com
18 Apr Mike Schmidt's 500th home run: On April 18, 1987, Mike Schmidt hit his 500th career home run, a three-run shot off Don Robinson of the Pittsburgh Pirates, leading the Philadelphia Phillies to an 8-6 victory at Three Rivers Stadium. source: mlb.com
19 Apr Joe Hart Birth: Joe Hart, a prominent English footballer, was born. He would later become a notable goalkeeper for Manchester City and the England national team.
20 Apr Greg LeMond injured in hunting accident: On April 20, 1987, American cyclist Greg LeMond was accidentally shot in the back by his brother-in-law during a turkey hunting trip in Lincoln, California. The incident resulted in multiple internal injuries, including damage to his liver, kidneys, and intestines. LeMond underwent emergency surgery and was hospitalized for several days. Despite the severity of his injuries, he made a remarkable recovery and returned to professional cycling, eventually winning the Tour de France in 1989 and 1990. source: washingtonpost.com
21 Apr Richard Hadlee scores 151* against Sri Lanka in Test cricket: On April 21, 1987, during the first Test against Sri Lanka in Colombo, New Zealand's Richard Hadlee achieved his highest Test score of 151 not out. This innings was part of a record-breaking sixth-wicket partnership of 246* with captain Jeff Crowe, which helped New Zealand recover from a challenging position and draw the match. source: cricbuzz.com
22 Apr NBA announces expansion to four new cities: On April 22, 1987, the NBA's Board of Governors voted to expand by four teams, adding franchises in Charlotte, North Carolina; Minneapolis, Minnesota; Miami, Florida; and Orlando, Florida. The Charlotte Hornets and Miami Heat began play in the 1988-89 season, while the Minneapolis Timberwolves and Orlando Magic joined in the 1989-90 season. source: washingtonpost.com
23 Apr Maine Mariners relocate to Utica, New York: On April 23, 1987, the New Jersey Devils announced that their American Hockey League (AHL) affiliate, the Maine Mariners, would relocate from Portland, Maine, to Utica, New York, becoming the Utica Devils. This move marked a significant change for the organization and its fans. source: brainyhistory.com
28 Apr Vinny Testaverde selected as first overall pick in 1987 NFL Draft: Vinny Testaverde was selected as the first overall pick in the 1987 NFL Draft by the Tampa Bay Buccaneers. This marked a significant moment in NFL history, as Testaverde went on to have a long and notable career in professional football. His selection was part of a draft that included several future stars. source: pro-football-reference.com
29 Apr Andre Dawson hits for the cycle against the St. Louis Cardinals: On April 29, 1987, Chicago Cubs outfielder Andre Dawson achieved the rare feat of hitting for the cycle in a game against the St. Louis Cardinals. This accomplishment highlighted Dawson's exceptional performance during the game. source: baseball-reference.com
30 Apr Bill Elliott sets NASCAR qualifying record at Talladega: On April 30, 1987, Bill Elliott set the NASCAR qualifying record at Talladega Superspeedway, achieving an average speed of 212.809 mph in his Ford Thunderbird. This record-breaking lap remains the fastest qualifying speed in NASCAR history as of October 2025. source: espn.com
02 May Alysheba wins 113th Kentucky Derby: On May 2, 1987, Alysheba, ridden by jockey Chris McCarron and trained by Jack Van Berg, won the 113th Kentucky Derby at Churchill Downs. The race was marked by a dramatic stretch run where Alysheba overcame a stumble to defeat Bet Twice by three-quarters of a length, finishing in a time of 2:03.40. The victory was witnessed by an attendance of 130,532. source: espn.com
03 May Dicky Fuller, West Indies Cricket Player Dies: Dicky Fuller, a West Indies cricket player who played a single Test match in 1935, passed away. During his brief cricket career, he scored one run and had bowling figures of 0-12.
04 May Cesc Fàbregas was born on May 4, 1987: Cesc Fàbregas, a Spanish professional footballer, was born on May 4, 1987, in Arenys de Mar, Spain. He is known for his exceptional passing ability and vision on the field, having played for top clubs like Arsenal, Barcelona, and Chelsea, as well as the Spanish national team. Fàbregas has won numerous titles, including the FIFA World Cup and UEFA European Championship. source: bbc.com
05 May Mario Andretti sets unofficial Indy 500 track record: On May 5, 1987, during Indianapolis 500 practice, Mario Andretti achieved an unofficial track record by completing a lap at 218.204 mph, making him the favorite for the pole position. The next fastest time, turned in by Bobby Rahal, was a full 5 mph slower. This performance highlighted Andretti's dominance during the practice sessions leading up to the race. source: motorsportmagazine.com
09 May Eddie Murray hits home runs from both sides in consecutive games: On May 8 and 9, 1987, Eddie Murray became the first player in Major League Baseball history to hit home runs from both sides of the plate in consecutive games. In the May 9 game, he also contributed a double and a single, leading the Baltimore Orioles to a 15-6 victory over the Chicago White Sox. source: baseballhall.org
10 May Jody Rosenthal wins United Virginia Bank Golf Classic: On May 10, 1987, Jody Rosenthal secured her first LPGA Tour victory at the United Virginia Bank Golf Classic in Suffolk, Virginia. She fired a final-round 66 to finish at 7-under 209, one stroke ahead of runner-up Cindy Hill. source: upi.com
13 May Ajax wins European Cup Winners' Cup: On May 13, 1987, Ajax defeated 1. FC Lokomotive Leipzig 1–0 in the European Cup Winners' Cup final at Athens' Olympic Stadium. Marco van Basten scored the decisive goal in the 20th minute, marking Ajax's first and only title in this competition. source: uefa.com
14 May Philadelphia Flyers defeat Montreal Canadiens in Wales Conference Final Game 6: On May 14, 1987, the Philadelphia Flyers won 4-3 against the Montreal Canadiens in Game 6 of the Wales Conference Final, advancing to the Stanley Cup Final. source: statmuse.com
15 May Andy Murray was born on May 15, 1987: Andy Murray, a professional tennis player from Great Britain, was born on May 15, 1987, in Glasgow, Scotland. He is known for his achievements in tennis, including winning multiple Grand Slam titles and an Olympic gold medal. Murray has been a prominent figure in the sport, contributing to its popularity in the UK. source: bbc.com
16 May Alysheba wins 112th Preakness Stakes: On May 16, 1987, Alysheba, ridden by jockey Chris McCarron, secured victory in the 112th Preakness Stakes at Pimlico Race Course in Baltimore, Maryland. The race was run over a fast track, with Alysheba finishing in a time of 1:55-4/5, narrowly defeating runner-up Bet Twice by a half-length. The event attracted a total attendance of 87,945, marking it as the second-highest attended American thoroughbred racing event in 1987. source: en.wikipedia.org
17 May First Rugby World Cup begins in New Zealand and Australia: The inaugural Rugby World Cup kicked off on May 17, 1987, co-hosted by New Zealand and Australia. This landmark event featured 16 teams competing for the title, with New Zealand ultimately winning the tournament. The Rugby World Cup has since become one of the premier events in international rugby. source: bbc.com
20 May IFK Göteborg wins UEFA Cup final against Dundee United: On May 20, 1987, IFK Göteborg secured their second UEFA Cup title by drawing 1-1 with Dundee United in the second leg of the final at Tannadice Park in Dundee, Scotland. This result, combined with their 1-0 victory in the first leg at Ullevi Stadium in Gothenburg, gave them a 2-1 aggregate win. The decisive goal in the second leg was scored by Lennart Nilsson, while John Clark equalized for Dundee United. source: bbc.co.uk
22 May First Rugby World Cup held in New Zealand and Australia: The inaugural Rugby World Cup took place from May 22 to June 18, 1987, co-hosted by New Zealand and Australia. The tournament featured 16 teams and culminated in New Zealand defeating France in the final, held at Eden Park in Auckland. This event marked a significant milestone in rugby history, establishing the World Cup as a premier international competition. source: bbc.com
24 May Al Unser wins fourth Indianapolis 500: On May 24, 1987, Al Unser Sr. secured his fourth Indianapolis 500 victory, tying the record held by A.J. Foyt. At 47 years old, Unser became the oldest winner of the race, a record he still holds. His victory was considered one of the biggest upsets in Indy 500 history, as he entered the race without a ride and was hired by Roger Penske to replace the injured Danny Ongais. Unser drove a backup car that had been on display in a hotel lobby just weeks prior. source: apnews.com
27 May FC Porto wins European Cup: On May 27, 1987, FC Porto defeated Bayern Munich 2–1 in the European Cup final at Vienna's Praterstadion. After Bayern took the lead with a Ludwig Kögl header, Porto equalized with Rabah Madjer's backheel and secured victory with Juary's volley. This marked Porto's first European trophy. source: en.wikipedia.org
28 May Pitching Record in Southern League: Bob Milacki sets a Southern League pitching record by maintaining a no-hit performance for 11 1/3 innings, a remarkable feat in minor league baseball.
29 May Robin Ventura sets NCAA Division I record with 58-game hitting streak: In 1987, Robin Ventura of Oklahoma State University achieved a 58-game hitting streak, setting a new NCAA Division I record. This remarkable feat remains unmatched in Division I baseball history. source: ncaa.com
30 May Mike Tyson's boxing victory: On May 30, 1987, Mike Tyson defended his heavyweight title against Tony Tucker, winning by unanimous decision. This victory solidified Tyson's dominance in the boxing world during the late 1980s, further establishing his reputation as a formidable champion. source: boxrec.com
31 May Edmonton Oilers win Stanley Cup in 1987: The Edmonton Oilers won the Stanley Cup on May 31, 1987, defeating the Philadelphia Flyers in a dramatic Game 7. This victory marked the Oilers' third championship in four years, solidifying their dominance in the NHL during the 1980s. Wayne Gretzky played a pivotal role in the series, contributing significantly to the team's success. source: britannica.com
01 Jun Phil Niekro's 314th win sets Niekro brothers' MLB record: On June 1, 1987, Phil Niekro of the Cleveland Indians secured his 314th career victory by defeating the Detroit Tigers 9–6. This win, combined with his brother Joe Niekro's 221 wins, established the Niekro brothers as the most successful pitching duo in Major League Baseball history, surpassing the previous record of 529 combined wins held by Gaylord and Jim Perry. source: latimes.com
02 Jun Ken Griffey Jr. drafted first overall by Seattle Mariners: On June 2, 1987, the Seattle Mariners selected Ken Griffey Jr. with the first overall pick in the MLB Draft. Griffey Jr. had an outstanding senior season at Archbishop Moeller High School in Cincinnati, batting .478 with seven home runs, 26 RBIs, and 13 stolen bases. This selection marked the beginning of his illustrious 22-year Major League Baseball career. source: baseballhall.org
03 Jun Cubs and Astros tie record with three grand slams in a single game: On June 3, 1987, the Chicago Cubs and Houston Astros each hit a grand slam, tying the Major League Baseball record for most grand slams in a single game. The Cubs' grand slams were hit by Brian Dayett and Keith Moreland, contributing to a 22-7 victory over the Astros. This event matched the previous record set by the Baltimore Orioles and Texas Rangers in 1986. source: bleedcubbieblue.com
04 Jun Edwin Moses' 122-race winning streak ends: On June 4, 1987, Edwin Moses' 122-race winning streak in the 400-meter hurdles ended when Danny Harris defeated him in Madrid. Moses, the defending Olympic champion and world-record holder, tripped at the last hurdle, finishing in 47.69 seconds, while Harris won in 47.56 seconds. This marked Moses' first loss since August 26, 1977. source: washingtonpost.com
05 Jun Dwight Gooden returns to baseball: On June 5, 1987, Dwight Gooden made a significant return to Major League Baseball after a brief hiatus. His comeback was highly anticipated, as he was one of the league's standout pitchers, known for his impressive strikeout ability and overall performance. source: baseball-reference.com
06 Jun Steffi Graf wins first Grand Slam title at 1987 French Open: On June 6, 1987, 17-year-old Steffi Graf secured her first Grand Slam title by defeating Martina Navratilova in the French Open women's singles final. The match concluded with a score of 6–4, 4–6, 8–6, marking Graf's emergence as a major force in women's tennis. source: latimes.com
07 Jun Ivan Lendl retains French Open men's tennis title: On June 7, 1987, Ivan Lendl defeated Mats Wilander in the French Open men's singles final with a score of 7–5, 6–2, 3–6, 7–6^(7–3). This victory marked Lendl's third French Open title and his fifth Grand Slam title overall. The match lasted 4 hours and 17 minutes, concluding in near darkness due to rain delays. source: latimes.com
14 Jun Los Angeles Lakers win NBA Championship in 1987: The Los Angeles Lakers secured the NBA Championship on June 14, 1987, by defeating the Boston Celtics in Game 6 of the Finals. This victory marked the Lakers' 10th championship title and was a significant moment in the storied rivalry between the two teams. Magic Johnson was named the Finals MVP for his outstanding performance throughout the series. source: nba.com
15 Jun Michael Spinks defeats Gerry Cooney by TKO in fifth round: On June 15, 1987, Michael Spinks defeated Gerry Cooney by technical knockout in the fifth round at the Convention Center in Atlantic City, New Jersey. Spinks, the lineal heavyweight champion, knocked Cooney down twice in the fifth round, prompting referee Frank Cappuccino to stop the fight at 2:51. The bout was contested for The Ring and lineal heavyweight titles. source: washingtonpost.com
19 Jun Wee Willie Keeler's Hitting Streak Ends: Baseball legend Wee Willie Keeler's remarkable 44-game hitting streak came to an end, marking a significant moment in baseball history.
21 Jun Scott Simpson wins 1987 U.S. Open at Olympic Club: Scott Simpson clinched his only major title by winning the 1987 U.S. Open at the Olympic Club in San Francisco. He secured a one-stroke victory over Tom Watson, finishing with a total score of 277 (−3). Simpson's decisive performance included three consecutive birdies on holes 14 through 16 in the final round. source: usga.org
22 Jun Tom Seaver retires from baseball after brief Mets comeback: On June 22, 1987, Tom Seaver announced his retirement from baseball after a short-lived comeback attempt with the New York Mets. Despite rejoining the Mets in early June, Seaver struggled in exhibition games and decided to retire, ending his illustrious 20-year career with a 311-205 record and 3,640 strikeouts. source: latimes.com
25 Jun Salt Lake City Trappers begin record 29-game winning streak: On June 25, 1987, the Salt Lake City Trappers initiated a historic 29-game winning streak by defeating the Pocatello Giants 12-6. This streak remains the longest in professional baseball history. source: washingtonpost.com
26 Jun Yankees overcome 9-0 deficit to defeat Red Sox 12-11 in 10 innings: On June 26, 1987, the New York Yankees rallied from a 9-0 deficit to defeat the Boston Red Sox 12-11 in 10 innings at Yankee Stadium. The Yankees scored 11 runs in the third inning, erasing the Red Sox's early lead. The game concluded with a walk-off RBI single by Wayne Tolleson in the bottom of the tenth inning. source: baseball-reference.com
28 Jun Don Baylor Sets MLB Hit-by-Pitch Record: Boston Red Sox outfielder Don Baylor sets a Major League Baseball career record by being hit by pitches 244 times, demonstrating his resilience and unique statistical achievement in baseball history.
29 Jun Yankees Dramatic Baseball Victory: In an extraordinary baseball game, the New York Yankees dramatically overcome the Toronto Blue Jays, winning 15-14 after initially blowing an 11-4 lead. Dave Winfield's 8th-inning grand slam proved to be the decisive moment in this thrilling match.
30 Jun Patrik Sjöberg sets high jump world record: On June 30, 1987, Swedish high jumper Patrik Sjöberg cleared 2.42 meters (7 feet 11.3 inches) at the Stockholm Stadium, setting a new world record. This mark remains the European record and ranks him third on the world all-time list behind Javier Sotomayor and Mutaz Essa Barshim. source: upi.com
04 Jul Martina Navratilova Wins Sixth Consecutive Wimbledon Title: Tennis legend Martina Navratilova demonstrated her extraordinary skill by winning her sixth straight Wimbledon singles title, defeating Steffi Graf in a memorable match that further cemented her status as one of the greatest tennis players of all time.
05 Jul Pat Cash wins Wimbledon Men's Tennis Championship: On July 5, 1987, Australian tennis player Pat Cash defeated Ivan Lendl in the Wimbledon Men's Singles final with a score of 7–6^(7–5), 6–2, 7–5. This victory marked Cash's first and only Grand Slam title. After the match, Cash celebrated by climbing into the stands to join his family and coach. source: upi.com
06 Jul Imran Khan becomes first Pakistani bowler to take 300 Test wickets: On July 6, 1987, during the third Test against England at Headingley, Leeds, Imran Khan achieved his 300th Test wicket, becoming the first Pakistani bowler to reach this milestone. He took 10 wickets in the match, leading Pakistan to an innings and 18 runs victory. source: espncricinfo.com
07 Jul Yankees rally from 7-run deficit to defeat Twins 12-7: On July 7, 1987, the New York Yankees overcame a 7-0 deficit to beat the Minnesota Twins 12-7. The Yankees scored seven runs in the seventh inning, highlighted by home runs from Mike Pagliarulo and Rickey Henderson, and added five more in the eighth inning, including a three-run homer by Claudell Washington. source: latimes.com
11 Jul Cal Ripken Sr. manages sons Cal Jr. and Billy in MLB game: On July 11, 1987, Cal Ripken Sr. became the first manager to simultaneously manage his two sons, Cal Ripken Jr. and Billy Ripken, in a Major League Baseball game. The Baltimore Orioles faced the Minnesota Twins, resulting in a 2–1 loss for the Orioles. This historic event marked the first time a father managed two sons in the majors. source: en.wikipedia.org
12 Jul Kent Tekulve pitches his 900th game in relief for the Philadelphia Phillies: On July 12, 1987, Kent Tekulve, a right-handed relief pitcher for the Philadelphia Phillies, achieved his 900th career game in relief. This milestone underscored his significant role in the bullpen and his enduring presence in Major League Baseball. source: upi.com
14 Jul Rookie of the Year Award renamed to Jackie Robinson Award in 1987: In July 1987, Major League Baseball renamed its Rookie of the Year Award to the Jackie Robinson Award, honoring the 40th anniversary of Robinson breaking the baseball color line. source: mlb.com
16 Jul Don Mattingly's historic performance on July 16, 1987: On July 16, 1987, New York Yankees first baseman Don Mattingly achieved a remarkable feat by hitting his fourth grand slam of the season against the Texas Rangers, tying the Yankees' single-season record for grand slams. Additionally, he homered in his sixth consecutive game, matching the American League record for consecutive games with a home run. Mattingly's performance contributed to the Yankees' 12-3 victory over the Rangers. source: mlb.com
17 Jul Don Mattingly hits home run in seventh consecutive game: On July 17, 1987, New York Yankees first baseman Don Mattingly hit a home run in his seventh consecutive game, leading off the fourth inning against Texas Rangers pitcher Paul Kilgus. This achievement made him the first American League player to hit home runs in seven consecutive games, a record he would tie with eight consecutive games the following day. source: mlb.com
18 Jul Don Mattingly ties Major League home run record: On July 18, 1987, New York Yankees first baseman Don Mattingly hit a home run in his eighth consecutive game, matching the Major League Baseball record set by Dale Long in 1956. Mattingly's streak began on July 8 and included 10 home runs over the eight games. The record-tying home run came in the fourth inning off Texas Rangers pitcher José Guzmán, contributing to a 7–2 loss for the Yankees. source: latimes.com
19 Jul Nick Faldo wins 116th British Open at Muirfield: Nick Faldo secured his first major championship victory at the 116th British Open on July 19, 1987, at Muirfield Golf Links in Gullane, Scotland. He parred all 18 holes in the final round, finishing with a total score of 279, one stroke ahead of runners-up Paul Azinger and Rodger Davis. This victory marked the first time an Englishman had won The Open since Tony Jacklin in 1969. source: theopen.com
20 Jul Don Mattingly Ties Fielding Record: New York Yankees first baseman Don Mattingly ties the major league fielding record for first base with 22 put-outs, matching a record originally set by Hal Chase in 1906. This achievement highlights Mattingly's exceptional defensive skills.
22 Jul Said Aouita sets 5,000 meters world record at Golden Gala: On July 22, 1987, Moroccan runner Said Aouita broke the 5,000 meters world record at the Golden Gala in Rome, clocking 12 minutes 58.39 seconds. This performance made him the first to run the distance under 13 minutes, surpassing his previous record of 13:00.40 set in 1985. Aouita's achievement was a significant milestone in athletics history. source: washingtonpost.com
23 Jul Red Sox release Bill Buckner after 1986 World Series error: On July 23, 1987, the Boston Red Sox released first baseman Bill Buckner, who had been with the team since 1984. Buckner was notably remembered for his error in Game 6 of the 1986 World Series, where a ground ball rolled through his legs, allowing the New York Mets to win the game and eventually the series. At the time of his release, Buckner had a .273 batting average, two home runs, and 42 RBIs in 75 games during the 1987 season. source: en.wikipedia.org
24 Jul Hulda Crooks becomes oldest woman to climb Mt. Fuji: On July 24, 1987, at 91 years old, Hulda Crooks became the oldest woman to summit Japan's Mount Fuji. Known as "Grandma Whitney," she had previously scaled California's Mount Whitney 23 times between the ages of 66 and 91. Her achievements inspired many, demonstrating that age is no barrier to pursuing one's passions. source: latimes.com
26 Jul 1987 Baseball Hall of Fame Induction Ceremony: On July 26, 1987, the Baseball Hall of Fame inducted three new members: Jim "Catfish" Hunter and Billy Williams, elected by the Baseball Writers' Association of America (BBWAA), and Ray Dandridge, selected by the Veterans Committee. The ceremony took place in Cooperstown, New York, with Commissioner Peter Ueberroth in attendance. Additionally, broadcaster Jack Buck received the Ford C. Frick Award for broadcast excellence, and writer Jack Lang was honored with the J.G. Taylor Spink Award for meritorious contributions to baseball writing. source: baseballhall.org
27 Jul Salt Lake City Trappers' 29-game winning streak ends with 7-5 loss to Billings Mustangs: On July 27, 1987, the Salt Lake City Trappers' professional baseball record of 29 consecutive victories was halted by a 7-5 defeat to the Billings Mustangs. The Trappers had not lost since June 24, 1987, and had set a new record by surpassing the previous mark of 27 straight wins. The game was marked by a six-run first inning by the Mustangs, which proved insurmountable for the Trappers despite their efforts. source: washingtonpost.com
28 Jul Angel Cordero Jr. becomes fourth jockey to win 6,000 races: On July 28, 1987, Angel Cordero Jr. achieved his 6,000th career victory by riding Lost Kitty to a win at Monmouth Park, becoming the fourth jockey in history to reach this milestone. source: latimes.com
31 Jul Eddie Murray's 300th Home Run: Baltimore Orioles first baseman Eddie Murray hit his 300th career home run, a significant milestone in his baseball career.
01 Aug Mike Tyson becomes undisputed heavyweight champion: On August 1, 1987, Mike Tyson defeated Tony Tucker by unanimous decision to unify the WBA, WBC, and IBF heavyweight titles, becoming the youngest undisputed heavyweight champion at 21 years old. source: washingtonpost.com
02 Aug Michael Andretti wins 1987 Marlboro 500 at Michigan International Speedway: On August 2, 1987, Michael Andretti secured his first Michigan 500 victory at the Michigan International Speedway in Brooklyn, Michigan. He led 248 of the 250 laps, finishing 9.11 seconds ahead of second-place finisher Al Unser. The race set an Indy car record with an average speed of 171.493 mph, making it the fastest 500-mile race in history at that time. source: washingtonpost.com
03 Aug Jack Morris sets American League wild pitch record: On August 3, 1987, Detroit Tigers pitcher Jack Morris threw five wild pitches in a game against the Kansas City Royals, tying the American League record for most wild pitches in a single game. source: canadianbaseballnews.com
04 Aug Phil Younghusband: British-Filipino footballer: Phil Younghusband, born on August 4, 1987, in Ashford, Surrey, England, is a retired professional footballer who played as a striker and midfielder. He is best known for his contributions to the Philippines national team, where he became the country's most capped player and all-time top scorer, earning 108 caps and scoring 52 goals. He began his professional career with Chelsea's reserve team in 2005 and later played for clubs in the Philippines, including San Beda FC, Loyola Meralco Sparks, and Davao Aguilas. He announced his retirement from football in November 2019. source: en.wikipedia.org
06 Aug England vs Pakistan 5th Test Match at Kennington Oval: The fifth Test match between England and Pakistan took place from August 6 to August 11, 1987, at the Kennington Oval in London. The match ended in a draw, with Pakistan scoring 708 runs in their first innings and England responding with 232 runs in their first innings and 315/4 in their second innings. The series concluded with Pakistan winning 1-0, marking their first Test series victory against England in England. source: web.cricbuzz.com
07 Aug Bill Mazeroski's jersey retired by Pittsburgh Pirates: On August 7, 1987, the Pittsburgh Pirates honored Hall of Fame second baseman Bill Mazeroski by retiring his jersey number 9. source: si.com
09 Aug PGA Championship: Larry Nelson wins the 69th PGA Championship, shooting a total of 287 at PGA National in Palm Beach, Florida.
13 Aug Jackie Joyner-Kersee ties world long jump record: On August 13, 1987, Jackie Joyner-Kersee tied the world record in the long jump with a leap of 7.40 meters (24 feet 3 inches) during the World Championships in Rome. This achievement solidified her status as one of the greatest female athletes in track and field history. Joyner-Kersee's performance was a significant milestone in her illustrious career, which included multiple Olympic medals and world records. source: britannica.com
16 Aug Joe Robbie Stadium opens in Miami: Joe Robbie Stadium, now known as Hard Rock Stadium, opened on August 16, 1987, in Miami, Florida. The stadium was privately funded and became the first new NFL stadium in 12 years. It hosted its first game with the Miami Dolphins playing a preseason match against the Chicago Bears. source: si.com
17 Aug Muhammad Ali elected to 'The Ring' magazine's Boxing Hall of Fame: On August 17, 1987, Muhammad Ali was elected to 'The Ring' magazine's Boxing Hall of Fame. At 45, Ali was the only man to win three heavyweight titles, retiring with a 56-5 record and 37 knockouts. He was inducted by the modern writers and broadcasters committee. source: andscape.com
18 Aug Philip Rush Sets English Channel Triple Crossing Record: New Zealand long-distance swimmer Philip Rush achieved a remarkable feat by completing a triple crossing of the English Channel in a record time of 28 hours and 21 minutes. This extraordinary performance was ten hours faster than the previous record holder, demonstrating exceptional endurance and swimming prowess.
20 Aug Catalina Ponor born on August 20, 1987: Catalina Ponor, a renowned Romanian gymnast, was born on August 20, 1987. She is celebrated for her achievements in artistic gymnastics, particularly in the Olympics and World Championships. Ponor has won multiple medals, contributing significantly to Romania's gymnastics legacy. source: britannica.com
21 Aug Harness Racing Mile Record: "Mack Lobell" set a remarkable harness racing trotting mile record with an impressive time of 1:52, demonstrating exceptional speed and skill in the standardbred racing world.
23 Aug Betsy King wins Atlantic City LPGA Classic: On August 23, 1987, Betsy King secured her 11th LPGA Tour victory at the Atlantic City LPGA Classic in New Jersey. She finished with a score of 207 (−6), three strokes ahead of the runner-up. The tournament was held at the Marriott Seaview Resort. source: en.wikipedia.org
25 Aug Justin Upton Birth: Justin Upton is a professional baseball player who was born on this date, later becoming a notable outfielder in Major League Baseball.
26 Aug Paul Molitor's 39-game hitting streak ends: On August 26, 1987, Milwaukee Brewers designated hitter Paul Molitor's 39-game hitting streak concluded when he went 0-for-4 against Cleveland Indians pitcher John Farrell. The Brewers won the game 1-0 in 10 innings, with Rick Manning delivering a walk-off single in the 10th inning. Molitor's streak was the longest in the American League since Joe DiMaggio's 56-game streak in 1941. source: mlb.com
28 Aug Mike Schmidt surpasses Ted Williams and Willie McCovey with 522nd home run: On August 28, 1987, Mike Schmidt hit his 522nd career home run, surpassing both Ted Williams and Willie McCovey on the all-time list. This milestone was achieved during an 8–1 victory over the San Diego Padres, marking a significant achievement in Schmidt's illustrious baseball career. source: upi.com
29 Aug Nolan Ryan passes 200-strikeout barrier for 11th time: On August 29, 1987, pitcher Nolan Ryan achieved a major league-record 11th season with over 200 strikeouts, fanning seven batters in six innings during an 8–2 loss to the Pittsburgh Pirates. source: baseball-reference.com
30 Aug Ben Johnson sets 100m world record at 1987 World Championships: At the 1987 World Championships in Rome, Canadian sprinter Ben Johnson set a 100m world record of 9.83 seconds, defeating American rival Carl Lewis, who finished second with a time of 9.93 seconds. This performance was later rescinded after Johnson admitted to steroid use between 1981 and 1988. source: washingtonpost.com
31 Aug Golf Earnings Record Set: Curtis Strange breaks the annual golf earnings record by winning $697,385 in prize money, marking a significant milestone in professional golf's financial landscape.
01 Sep Michael Chang becomes youngest male to win a match at the US Open: On September 1, 1987, at 15 years old, Michael Chang defeated Paul McNamee in the first round of the US Open, becoming the youngest male player to win a match in the tournament's history. Despite losing in the second round to Nduka Odizor, Chang's performance marked a significant milestone in his early career. source: upi.com
02 Sep Kevin Bass Achieves Rare Baseball Feat: Houston Astros outfielder Kevin Bass makes baseball history by becoming the first National League player to hit switch-hit home runs twice in a single game, a remarkable achievement in professional baseball.
04 Sep Bill Bowes, English cricketer, dies at 79: William Eric Bowes, known as Bill Bowes, was an English professional cricketer who played for Yorkshire and England. He passed away on September 4, 1987, in Otley, West Yorkshire, at the age of 79. source: wisden.com
05 Sep Carlton Fisk hits 300th career home run: On September 5, 1987, Carlton Fisk, the legendary catcher for the Chicago White Sox, hit his 300th career home run during a game against the New York Yankees. This milestone made Fisk one of the few catchers in Major League Baseball history to reach 300 home runs, solidifying his status as one of the game's greats. Fisk's achievement was celebrated by fans and marked a significant moment in his illustrious career. source: baseball-reference.com
06 Sep Douglas Wakiihuri wins marathon at 1987 World Championships in Rome: Kenyan runner Douglas Wakiihuri secured the gold medal in the men's marathon at the 1987 World Championships in Athletics held in Rome, Italy, on September 6, 1987. He completed the race in 2 hours, 11 minutes, and 48 seconds, finishing ahead of silver medalist Hussein Ahmed Salah of Djibouti and bronze medalist Gelindo Bordin of Italy. source: en.wikipedia.org
07 Sep Rosie Jones wins LPGA Rail Charity Golf Classic: On September 7, 1987, Rosie Jones secured her first LPGA Tour victory at the Rail Charity Golf Classic in Illinois, finishing with a score of 208 (−8), one stroke ahead of runner-up Nancy Lopez. source: brainyhistory.com
09 Sep Nolan Ryan reaches 4,500 career strikeouts: On September 9, 1987, Nolan Ryan of the Houston Astros struck out Mike Aldrete of the San Francisco Giants for his 4,500th career strikeout. Ryan achieved this milestone while pitching a complete game, recording 16 strikeouts in a 4-2 victory. Additionally, he contributed offensively by driving in the winning run with a hit. This performance underscored his enduring dominance on the mound. source: sabr.org
12 Sep Vince Coleman steals 100th base for third consecutive season: On September 12, 1987, Vince Coleman of the St. Louis Cardinals stole his 100th base of the season, becoming the first player in Major League Baseball history to steal 100 bases in each of his first three seasons. This milestone underscored his exceptional speed and base-stealing prowess during the mid-1980s. source: mlb.com
13 Sep Nancy Lopez wins Cellular One-Ping Golf Championship: On September 13, 1987, Nancy Lopez secured her 36th LPGA Tour victory at the Cellular One-Ping Golf Championship in Portland, Oregon. She finished with a 6-under-par 210, one stroke ahead of runners-up Jan Stephenson, Kelly Leadbetter, and Muffin Spencer-Devlin. Lopez's final-round 71 included birdies on holes 10, 13, and 14, with a crucial 25-foot putt on the 14th hole. source: upi.com
14 Sep Ivan Lendl wins 1987 US Open Men's Singles Championship: On September 14, 1987, Ivan Lendl defeated Mats Wilander in the US Open Men's Singles final with a score of 6–7^(7–9), 6–0, 7–6^(7–4), 6–4. This victory marked Lendl's third consecutive US Open title and his sixth Grand Slam title overall. The match lasted 4 hours and 47 minutes, making it the longest US Open final at that time. source: washingtonpost.com
18 Sep Darrell Evans becomes first 40-year-old to hit 30 home runs in a season: On September 18, 1987, Darrell Evans of the Detroit Tigers hit his 30th home run of the season, becoming the first player over 40 years old to achieve this milestone. The Tigers won the game against the Milwaukee Brewers with a score of 7-6. source: latimes.com
20 Sep Walter Payton sets NFL rushing touchdown record with 107th TD: On September 20, 1987, Chicago Bears running back Walter Payton scored his 107th career rushing touchdown, surpassing Jim Brown's previous record. In a 20-3 victory over the Tampa Bay Buccaneers, Payton added a 9-yard receiving touchdown, contributing to the Bears' win. Despite an ankle injury, he played nearly the entire game, rushing for 24 yards on 15 carries. source: washingtonpost.com
21 Sep NFL players strike over free agency: On September 21, 1987, the NFL Players Association initiated a strike demanding free agency rights, leading to the cancellation of Week 3 games and the use of replacement players. The strike lasted until October 15, 1987, without resolving the free agency issue, which was later addressed in 1993. source: upi.com
22 Sep NFL players' strike begins over free agency disputes: On September 22, 1987, the NFL Players Association initiated a strike after negotiations with team owners over free agency terms failed. The strike led to the cancellation of games scheduled for September 27 and 28, 1987. Replacement players were brought in to continue the season, but the strike concluded on October 15, 1987, after 24 days. The strike had significant impacts on the NFL season, including the New York Giants' failure to make the playoffs despite winning the Super Bowl the previous year. source: upi.com
24 Sep Matthew Connolly: English footballer: Matthew Thomas Martin Connolly, born on September 24, 1987, in Barnet, England, is a retired English professional footballer who played as a defender. He began his career at Arsenal, making his first-team debut in October 2006. Over the years, Connolly played for several clubs, including AFC Bournemouth, Colchester United, Queens Park Rangers, Reading, Cardiff City, and Watford. He won the Football League Championship three times, with QPR in 2011, Reading in 2012, and Cardiff City in 2013. Connolly retired from professional football in 2020. source: bbc.com
26 Sep Benito Santiago extends rookie hitting streak to 28 games: On September 26, 1987, San Diego Padres catcher Benito Santiago set a major league record for rookies by hitting safely in his 28th consecutive game, surpassing the previous mark of 27 set in 1943 by Guy Curtright. Santiago's streak would eventually reach 34 games, the longest ever by a Major League rookie and catcher. source: mlb.com
27 Sep Phil Niekro's final MLB game on September 27, 1987: Phil Niekro, at 48, made his final Major League Baseball appearance on September 27, 1987, pitching for the Atlanta Braves against the San Francisco Giants. In three innings, he allowed five runs on six hits, with the Braves losing 15-6. Niekro had been released by the Toronto Blue Jays earlier that season and returned to the Braves, the team he spent his first 19 major league seasons with. source: mlb.com
29 Sep Don Mattingly sets MLB record with sixth grand slam of the season: On September 29, 1987, New York Yankees first baseman Don Mattingly hit his sixth grand slam of the season, setting a Major League Baseball record. This grand slam, a three-run home run off Boston Red Sox pitcher Bruce Hurst, contributed to the Yankees' 6-0 victory. Mattingly's six grand slams that season were the only ones of his career and matched the team record for grand slams in a season, previously set by the 1938 Detroit Tigers. source: mlb.com
03 Oct Benito Santiago's 34-game hitting streak ends: On October 3, 1987, San Diego Padres catcher Benito Santiago's 34-game hitting streak was halted by Los Angeles Dodgers pitcher Orel Hershiser. Santiago went 0-for-3 in the game, which the Padres won 1-0. This streak remains the longest by a catcher and a rookie in Major League Baseball history. source: washingtonpost.com
04 Oct Unusual Touchdown Scoring in CFL: James Jefferson of the Winnipeg Blue Bombers scored two touchdowns on interception returns through an innovative play involving laterals, without technically making an interception.
08 Oct 1987 Cricket World Cup held in India and Pakistan: The 1987 Cricket World Cup, the fourth edition of the tournament, was co-hosted by India and Pakistan from October 8 to November 8, 1987. This was the first World Cup to feature a reduced number of overs per side, with matches played over 50 overs. Australia emerged as the champions, defeating England in the final held at the Gaddafi Stadium in Lahore. source: britannica.com
10 Oct Carla Esparza, mixed martial arts champion, born on October 10, 1987: Carla Esparza, an American former professional mixed martial artist and wrestler, was born on October 10, 1987, in Torrance, California. She is best known for being the first UFC Women's Strawweight Champion and the first Invicta FC Strawweight Champion. Esparza began her MMA career in 2010 and retired in 2024 after a successful tenure in the sport. source: en.wikipedia.org
12 Oct Minnesota Twins advance to World Series after ALCS victory over Detroit Tigers: On October 12, 1987, the Minnesota Twins secured their first World Series berth since 1965 by defeating the Detroit Tigers 9-5 in Game 5 of the American League Championship Series (ALCS), clinching the series 4-1. The Twins' offense was led by Kent Hrbek, who contributed a key single, and Gary Gaetti, who added a two-run single in the seventh inning. Closer Jeff Reardon entered in the eighth inning to secure the win, allowing only one run. The victory propelled the Twins to face the St. Louis Cardinals in the World Series, where they would go on to win their first championship. source: en.wikipedia.org
14 Oct St. Louis Cardinals win 1987 NLCS over San Francisco Giants: On October 14, 1987, the St. Louis Cardinals clinched the National League Championship Series by defeating the San Francisco Giants 6-0 in Game 7. The Cardinals secured their third pennant in six years, with pitcher Danny Cox earning the win and José Oquendo contributing a three-run home run. Despite the loss, Giants' outfielder Jeffrey Leonard was named the NLCS MVP. source: baseball-reference.com
15 Oct Jesse Levine, professional tennis player, born in Ottawa, Canada: Jesse Levine, a Canadian-American former professional tennis player, was born on October 15, 1987, in Ottawa, Ontario, Canada. He achieved his career-high singles ranking of world No. 69 on October 1, 2012, and represented the United States until 2012 before switching to represent Canada in 2013. source: en.wikipedia.org
16 Oct Mike Tyson Retains Heavyweight Title: Defending champion Mike Tyson defeated Tyrell Biggs via technical knockout (TKO) in the 7th round at the Atlantic City Convention Center, successfully retaining his unified heavyweight boxing title.
17 Oct First World Series game played indoors at Metrodome: On October 17, 1987, the Minnesota Twins hosted the St. Louis Cardinals in the first World Series game played indoors at the Hubert H. Humphrey Metrodome in Minneapolis. The Twins won 10-1, highlighted by Dan Gladden's grand slam in a seven-run fourth inning. The game was notable for the crowd noise exceeding 110 decibels, equivalent to a jet engine at takeoff. source: baseball-reference.com
19 Oct Billy Martin returns to manage Yankees for fifth time: On October 19, 1987, Billy Martin was appointed as the New York Yankees' manager for the fifth time, succeeding Lou Piniella, who was promoted to general manager. Martin had previously managed the Yankees in 1975–1978 and 1979, leading them to two World Series championships. His return was part of a managerial reshuffle following the Yankees' fourth-place finish in the American League East in 1987. source: thecrimson.com
25 Oct Minnesota Twins win first World Series championship: On October 25, 1987, the Minnesota Twins secured their first World Series title by defeating the St. Louis Cardinals 4-2 in Game 7. This victory marked the franchise's first championship since 1924, when they were known as the Washington Senators. The decisive game was held at the Hubert H. Humphrey Metrodome in Minneapolis, with pitcher Frank Viola earning the World Series MVP award for his performance. source: mnopedia.org
28 Oct Na Yeon Choi born on October 28, 1987: Na Yeon Choi, a South Korean professional golfer, was born on October 28, 1987, in Seoul, South Korea. She turned professional in 2004 and joined the LPGA Tour in 2008. Choi has achieved significant success, including winning the U.S. Women's Open in 2012. source: en.wikipedia.org
29 Oct Thomas Hearns becomes first four-division world champion: On October 29, 1987, Thomas Hearns defeated Juan Roldán by fourth-round knockout at the Las Vegas Hilton, capturing the vacant WBC middleweight title. This victory made Hearns the first boxer to win world titles in four different weight divisions: welterweight, light middleweight, middleweight, and light heavyweight. source: britannica.com
31 Oct Jockey Chris Antley sets single-day racing record: On October 31, 1987, jockey Chris Antley became the first rider to win nine races in a single day. He achieved this by securing four victories from six mounts at Aqueduct and five wins from eight rides during The Meadowlands' evening program. source: honoluluadvertiser.com
01 Nov Ibrahim Hussein wins 1987 New York City Marathon: Kenyan runner Ibrahim Hussein secured victory in the 1987 New York City Marathon, becoming the first African to win the event. He completed the race in 2 hours, 11 minutes, and 1 second, finishing ahead of Italy's Gianni DeMadonna and American runner Pete Pfitzinger. source: washingtonpost.com
03 Nov Marcel Dionne becomes second NHL player to reach 1,700 career points: On November 3, 1987, Marcel Dionne achieved his 1,700th career point, becoming the second player in NHL history to reach this milestone after Gordie Howe. source: nhltraderumor.com
04 Nov Benito Santiago wins NL Rookie of the Year: On November 4, 1987, San Diego Padres catcher Benito Santiago was unanimously selected as the National League Rookie of the Year. He concluded the season with a 34-game hitting streak, the longest ever by a rookie, and finished with a .300 batting average, 18 home runs, and 79 RBIs. source: latimes.com
06 Nov Birth of tennis player Ana Ivanovic: Ana Ivanovic, a Serbian former professional tennis player, was born on November 6, 1987. She achieved significant success in her career, including winning the French Open in 2008 and reaching the world No. 1 ranking. Ivanovic is known for her powerful playing style and has been a prominent figure in women's tennis. source: britannica.com
08 Nov Australia wins 1987 Cricket World Cup Final by 7 runs: On November 8, 1987, Australia defeated England by 7 runs in the Cricket World Cup Final at Eden Gardens, Kolkata. Australia set a target of 254 runs, scoring 253/5 in 50 overs, with David Boon contributing 75 runs. England's chase ended at 246/8, with Bill Athey's 58 runs being the highest score. This victory marked Australia's first World Cup title. source: icc-cricket.com
10 Nov Steve Bedrosian wins 1987 NL Cy Young Award: Steve Bedrosian, a relief pitcher for the Philadelphia Phillies, was awarded the 1987 National League Cy Young Award. He led the majors with 40 saves and posted a 2.83 ERA over 89 innings. Bedrosian narrowly edged out Rick Sutcliffe and Rick Reuschel in the voting. source: mlb.com
11 Nov 1987 Major League Baseball Awards Announced: In November 1987, Major League Baseball announced its annual awards, recognizing outstanding performances from the regular season. The American League Most Valuable Player was George Bell of the Toronto Blue Jays, while the National League MVP was Andre Dawson of the Chicago Cubs. Roger Clemens of the Boston Red Sox received the AL Cy Young Award, and Steve Bedrosian of the Philadelphia Phillies won the NL Cy Young Award. Mark McGwire of the Oakland Athletics was honored as the AL Rookie of the Year, and Benito Santiago of the San Diego Padres received the NL Rookie of the Year award. Sparky Anderson of the Detroit Tigers and Buck Rodgers of the Montreal Expos were named Managers of the Year in their respective leagues. source: en.wikipedia.org
15 Nov Carla Beurskens sets Dutch marathon record in Tokyo: On November 15, 1987, Dutch long-distance runner Carla Beurskens achieved a personal best of 2:26:34 at the Tokyo International Women's Marathon, finishing second behind East Germany's Katrin Dörre. This time stood as the Dutch national record for nearly 13 years, until it was surpassed by Lornah Kiplagat in 2003. source: upi.com
18 Nov Andre Dawson wins 1987 National League MVP award: On November 18, 1987, Andre Dawson of the Chicago Cubs was awarded the National League Most Valuable Player (MVP) award. Despite the Cubs finishing last in the NL East, Dawson led the league with 49 home runs and 137 RBIs, becoming the first player from a last-place team to win the MVP. He received 11 of 24 first-place votes, finishing 76 points ahead of runner-up Ozzie Smith. source: mlb.com
22 Nov New England Patriots defeat Indianapolis Colts 24-0 on November 22, 1987: On November 22, 1987, the New England Patriots hosted the Indianapolis Colts at Sullivan Stadium in Foxborough, Massachusetts. The Patriots secured a decisive 24-0 victory, with the Colts' offense unable to score throughout the game. This win improved the Patriots' record to 5-5, while the Colts fell to 5-5. The game was part of Week 11 of the 1987 NFL season. source: pro-football-history.com
25 Nov Abdul Qadir's record-breaking performance against England in Lahore: On November 25, 1987, during the first Test of England's tour to Pakistan at the Gaddafi Stadium in Lahore, Abdul Qadir delivered a remarkable bowling performance. He took 9 wickets for 56 runs in the first innings, setting a record for the best bowling figures by a Pakistani bowler in a Test match. This performance was instrumental in Pakistan's victory by an innings and 87 runs. source: espncricinfo.com
29 Nov NFL Passing Record: Joe Montana of the San Francisco 49ers set an impressive NFL record by completing 22 consecutive passes, demonstrating his exceptional skill and precision as a quarterback.
30 Nov Vasilisa Bardina Birth: Vasilisa Bardina, a Russian tennis player, was born on November 30, 1987. While not a globally renowned athlete, she represented Russia in professional tennis competitions.
02 Dec New Jersey Devils' Dedicated Fans Brave Snowstorm: 334 brave New Jersey Devils fans traversed 20 inches of snow to attend the team's 7-5 victory over the Calgary Flames at Meadowlands Coliseum, demonstrating extraordinary fan dedication.
04 Dec Ivan Lendl defeats Brad Gilbert in 1987 Masters Championship: On December 4, 1987, top-seeded Ivan Lendl began his quest for a fifth Masters Championship title by defeating eighth-seeded Brad Gilbert 6-2, 6-2 in a match lasting 68 minutes. Lendl's victory marked his 13th consecutive win over Gilbert. source: latimes.com
05 Dec Tim Brown wins Heisman Trophy: On December 5, 1987, Tim Brown, a wide receiver and kick return specialist from the University of Notre Dame, was awarded the Heisman Trophy, becoming the first wide receiver to receive this honor. He secured 1,442 points in the nationwide balloting, surpassing quarterback Don McPherson of Syracuse, who received 831 points. Brown's exceptional performance throughout the season, including notable punt returns, solidified his position as the nation's top college football player. source: washingtonpost.com
06 Dec Christa Rothenburger sets women's 500m speed skating world record: On December 6, 1987, East German speed skater Christa Rothenburger set a new world record in the women's 500-meter event with a time of 39.39 seconds at the World Cup in Calgary, Canada. This performance surpassed her previous record of 39.43 seconds set earlier that year. source: en.wikipedia.org
07 Dec Alianza Lima Air Disaster: A tragic plane crash in Ventanilla, Callao, Peru results in the complete loss of the entire Alianza Lima soccer team, devastating the sports community.
08 Dec NHL Goalie Scores Historic Goal: Philadelphia Flyers' goaltender Ron Hextall becomes the first goalie in NHL history to intentionally score a goal, breaking a significant hockey record.
09 Dec Larry Bird's free throw streak ends: On December 9, 1987, Larry Bird's consecutive free throw streak of 59 ended during a game against the New Jersey Nets. Bird had set a team record by surpassing Bill Sharman's previous mark of 55 consecutive free throws. source: upi.com
10 Dec Birth of Argentine footballer Gonzalo Higuaín: Gonzalo Higuaín, a prominent Argentine footballer known for his goal-scoring ability, was born on December 10, 1987, in Brest, France. He has played for several top clubs, including Real Madrid, Napoli, and Juventus, and has represented Argentina in multiple international tournaments, including the FIFA World Cup and Copa América. source: britannica.com
11 Dec Allan Border scores 205 runs against New Zealand in Adelaide Test: In the second Test of the 1987–88 series against New Zealand at Adelaide Oval, Allan Border scored 205 runs, becoming Australia's highest Test run-scorer at that time. This innings was pivotal in Australia's performance during the match. source: espncricinfo.com
12 Dec Oklahoma sets NCAA steals record: On December 12, 1987, the University of Oklahoma men's basketball team achieved a remarkable defensive feat by recording 33 steals in a game against Centenary College. This performance was highlighted by Mookie Blaylock's individual record of 12 steals, setting a new NCAA individual record at the time. The Sooners dominated the game, winning 152-84. source: vice.com
13 Dec Cleveland Browns set club record for most points scored in a quarter, 28: On December 13, 1987, the Cleveland Browns achieved a franchise record by scoring 28 points in the second quarter against the Cincinnati Bengals, leading to a 38-24 victory. source: profootballarchives.com
18 Dec Miki Ando Birth: Miki Ando, a notable Japanese figure skater who would later become the first woman to successfully land a quadruple jump in competition, is born.
19 Dec NHL records fastest two goals in Bruins-Blues game: On December 19, 1987, during a game between the Boston Bruins and the St. Louis Blues, the teams set an NHL record by scoring two goals in just two seconds. With the Bruins trailing 6-4 in the third period, Ken Linseman scored with 10 seconds remaining. Following the ensuing faceoff, Blues center Doug Gilmour scored into the empty net two seconds later, securing a 7-4 victory for St. Louis. source: hockey-reference.com
20 Dec Sweden defeats India 5-0 in Davis Cup final: On December 20, 1987, Sweden clinched their fourth Davis Cup title by defeating India 5-0 in the final held at the Scandinavium Arena in Gothenburg, Sweden. The decisive doubles match saw Mats Wilander and Joakim Nystrom defeat India's Anand and Vijay Amritraj, 6-2, 3-6, 6-1, 6-2, securing an unassailable 3-0 lead for Sweden. The following day, Anders Jarryd and Mats Wilander completed the sweep with straight-set singles victories over Ramesh Krishnan and Vijay Amritraj, respectively. source: latimes.com
23 Dec Tom Barrasso records 100th NHL win, becoming youngest to do so: On December 23, 1987, Buffalo Sabres goaltender Tom Barrasso achieved his 100th NHL victory at 22 years and 9 months, making him the youngest player to reach this milestone. He led the Sabres to a 5-2 win over the Detroit Red Wings, stopping 35 shots. source: hookedonhockeymagazine.com
27 Dec Steve Largent sets NFL career reception record: On December 27, 1987, Seattle Seahawks wide receiver Steve Largent became the NFL's all-time leader in career receptions, surpassing Charlie Joiner's previous record of 750. In a game against the Kansas City Chiefs, Largent caught six passes, bringing his total to 752 receptions. He finished the game with 95 receiving yards and one touchdown, contributing to the Seahawks' 41-20 loss. source: profootballhof.com
30 Dec Australia-New Zealand Cricket Match: A tense cricket match at the Melbourne Cricket Ground ended in a draw, with Australia hanging on with just one wicket left and 17 runs short of victory.

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