This Week in Sports History | June 23–29 | Mike Tyson, Kobe Bryant & Pelé
Sports Moments in History from June 23 – June 29
From Olympic beginnings to iconic knockouts and scandalous bites, this week brought unforgettable moments across the sports world.
🥇 June 23, 1894 – IOC Founded, Sparking Olympic Legacy
On this day, the International Olympic Committee (IOC) was founded in Paris by Baron Pierre de Coubertin, officially reviving the concept of the modern Olympic Games and reshaping international sports.
June 24, 1995 – South Africa Wins Rugby World Cup
On this day, South Africa defeated New Zealand 15–12 in extra time to win their first Rugby World Cup. President Nelson Mandela presenting the trophy to captain Francois Pienaar remains one of sports’ most powerful political images.
⚾ June 24, 1882 – Richard Higham Banned from Baseball
On this day, umpire Richard Higham was permanently banned from professional baseball for fixing games, making him the only umpire in MLB history ever barred for dishonesty.
🎾 June 24, 2010 – Longest Tennis Match Concludes at Wimbledon
On this day, John Isner defeated Nicolas Mahut 70–68 in the fifth set, concluding an 11-hour, 5-minute match spread over three days — the longest in tennis history.
🏒 June 25, 2000 – Henrik Lundqvist Drafted by Rangers
On this day, the New York Rangers selected goalie Henrik Lundqvist in the 7th round of the NHL Draft. He went on to become one of the greatest goaltenders of his era, earning the nickname “King Henrik.”
🏀 June 26, 1996 – Kobe Bryant, Allen Iverson Drafted
On this day, the 1996 NBA Draft took place, widely considered one of the best ever. Allen Iverson went #1 overall, while Kobe Bryant was taken 13th and traded to the Lakers. Ray Allen and Steve Nash also entered the league that night.
🥊 June 28, 1997 – Tyson Bites Holyfield
On this day, in one of the most shocking boxing moments ever, Mike Tyson bit off part of Evander Holyfield’s ear during their rematch. He was disqualified in the third round and temporarily banned from boxing.
⚽ June 29, 1958 – Brazil Wins Its First FIFA World Cup
On this day, Brazil beat Sweden 5–2 in the 1958 World Cup Final, capturing their first world title. A 17-year-old Pelé scored twice and became a global sensation.
⚾ June 29, 1905 – “Moonlight” Graham Makes His MLB Debut
On this day, Archibald “Moonlight” Graham played his only Major League game for the New York Giants, taking the field for one inning without an at-bat. His story later became legend in Field of Dreams.
- 🥇 IOC Founded (1894)
- South Africa’s Rugby Triumph (1995)
- ⚾ MLB Bans an Umpire (1952)
- 🎾 Longest Tennis Match Ever (2010)
- 🏒 Lundqvist Drafted (2000)
- 🏀 Kobe & Iverson Drafted (1996)
- 🥊 Tyson Bites Holyfield (1997)
- ⚽ Brazil Wins First World Cup (1958)
- ⚾ Moonlight Graham’s Lone Game (1905)
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Banner created with Canva | All dates verified via ESPN & Sports Reference
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