Quote from OPTIONAL777:
Can all records be broken? In theory yes.
Have we seen the "greatest" ever? Probably yes.
Who can compare what Jim Brown did in his era to Emmitt Smith? Because Emmitt Smith has more yards, is he the better back?
Not to mention Babe's pitching prowess, I doubt Barry could strike anyone out by taking a turn on the mound.
I really agree with what you say. And you are right about comparing Bonds to Ruth. Not objectively possible.
But clearly (to me) Jim Brown was a back that was the very best in his style (Walter Payton.....completely different for example..can't compare....Sweetness did not carry 6 defenders on his back into the end zone....Brown did it seemingly on a regular basis).
But the fact remains that records fall. Athletes get better through conditioning, effort, technology, whatever (breeding?). Even running has been affected by technology. But still, is there a limit to how fast someone can run? How high they can jump? Or how far?
What about Serena and Venus? What planet are they from?
They could win in the men's circuit most likely. And this is not a Billie Jean King vs. Bobby Riggs thing. I really think they (especially Serena) have the physical attributes to compete at a level that makes Chris Evert's level in her day into a different sport entirely.
It will be interesting to see what the future holds. I just know that the 4 minute mile was at one time an unbreakable barrier. Now virtually ALL mile runners, the laggards, break that mark at the top levels of competition. From no one being able to do it, to thousands in two generations is truly an amazing change of standards.
So while it is hard to imagine another basketball player being as great as MJ, it is equally hard to imagine it will never happen.
Just my $.02
Peace,
rs7
PS....having said this....there was never any athlete, to me, that was more exciting to watch than Michael. With the possible exception of Willie Mays when I was a baby and he was in his twenties. He had the special something that set him well apart. Flair? Style? These things put together with incredible athletic ability are what makes stars into superstars. When Mays rounded first base on his way to second, you KNEW his hat was gonna fly off his head. A little thing that meant a lot to a 7 year old. So cool!!!! Ali's banter. Namath's swagger. The originals are great for the games. Then you get a Brian Bosworth, or a Roger Clemens, and you see how their "flair" actually detracts from their appeal.
I wish we got to see Bo Jackson develop into his potential. What a shame!!
