Top 10 Plays of the Year: A Must-See List!
By Emily Johnson
Introduction: Why Top 10 Plays of the Year Matter
As a die-hard sports fan, I always look forward to the end of the year when all the major sports leagues release their Top 10 Plays of the Year lists. It’s a chance to relive the most amazing, jaw-dropping moments from the past 12 months and see some of the best athletes in the world do what they do best. But these lists aren’t just fun to watch—they’re also important for understanding the evolution of sports and the incredible feats that athletes are capable of. In this article, I’ll be diving into the Top 10 Plays of the Year and exploring what makes them so special.
Curiosities, Statistics, and Facts About Top 10 Plays of the Year
- Each year, the major sports leagues release their own Top 10 Plays of the Year lists, which are voted on by fans, players, and coaches.
- The NBA’s Top 10 Plays of the Year are often the most popular, as basketball lends itself to highlight-reel dunks and buzzer-beating shots.
- However, the NFL, MLB, NHL, and even soccer leagues also have their fair share of incredible plays that make the cut.
- According to a survey by ESPN, the most memorable Top 10 Play of the Year for fans was Odell Beckham Jr.’s one-handed catch in 2014.
- Studies have shown that watching sports highlights can have a positive impact on mood and overall well-being.
- Some of the most memorable Top 10 Plays of the Year have come from underdog teams or players, proving that anything can happen in sports.
Top 10 Plays of the Year: The List
Without further ado, here are the Top 10 Plays of the Year for 2021:
LeBron James’ Buzzer-Beater Against the Warriors
LeBron James has made a career out of making big shots in big moments, and this one was no exception. With the Lakers down by two points and time running out against the Golden State Warriors, James hit an incredible step-back three-pointer to win the game.
Patrick Mahomes’ No-Look Pass
The reigning Super Bowl MVP is known for his arm strength and accuracy, but this play showcased his creativity as well. Rolling to his left and under pressure from the defense, Mahomes threw a pass across his body to a wide-open receiver, all without looking in his direction.
Mookie Betts’ Home Run Robbery
The Los Angeles Dodgers outfielder is one of the best defenders in baseball, and he proved it with this incredible catch. Leaping at the wall and fully extending his arm, Betts robbed a home run from the opposing team and saved the game for the Dodgers.
Tyler Herro’s Playoff Performance
The Miami Heat rookie burst onto the scene in the NBA playoffs, where he averaged over 16 points per game and led his team to the NBA Finals. Herro’s highlight-reel plays included silky smooth jump shots, acrobatic layups, and clutch threes.
Lionel Messi’s Free Kick Goal
The Argentine soccer superstar is known for his incredible footwork and ball control, but this goal showcased his accuracy as well. From well outside the box, Messi curled a free kick into the top corner of the net, leaving the goalkeeper with no chance.
Naomi Osaka’s US Open Win
The Japanese tennis star has become one of the most dominant players in the world, and her US Open victory in 2021 was one for the ages. Osaka battled through a tough draw and defeated some of the top players in the world to claim her second US Open title.
Connor McDavid’s Dazzling Goal
The Edmonton Oilers’ captain is widely regarded as the best player in the NHL, and this goal showcased his incredible speed and hands. McDavid weaved through multiple defenders and slipped the puck between the goalie’s legs for a highlight-reel goal.
Kyler Murray’s Hail Mary
The Arizona Cardinals quarterback has a cannon for an arm, and he showed it off with this incredible game-winning touchdown pass. With time running out and his team down by four points, Murray launched a deep pass into the end zone that was caught by a leaping DeAndre Hopkins for the touchdown.
Simone Biles’ Incredible Vault
The most decorated gymnast in history added another accolade to her resume with this incredible vault at the US Classic. Biles performed a Yurchenko double pike, a move that no other female gymnast has ever attempted in competition.
Shohei Ohtani’s Home Run Derby Win
The Los Angeles Angels’ two-way star put on a show at the Home Run Derby, where he hit an incredible 28 home runs in the first round alone. Ohtani’s power and swing made him a fan favorite, and his performance cemented his status as one of the most exciting players in baseball.
Why These Plays Matter
So what is it about these Top 10 Plays of the Year that makes them so special? For one, they showcase the incredible athleticism and skill of some of the world’s best athletes. Whether it’s a buzzer-beating shot, a game-winning touchdown, or a gravity-defying catch, these plays are the epitome of what makes sports so exciting.
But these plays also represent something deeper. They’re a reminder that anything can happen in sports, that the underdog can sometimes come out on top, and that the impossible is always within reach. They inspire us to push ourselves to be better, to never give up, and to always believe that we can achieve greatness.
As fans, we may never be able to perform the incredible feats that we see on the Top 10 Plays of the Year lists. But we can take inspiration from them, and use them as a reminder that with hard work, dedication, and a little bit of luck, anything is possible.
FAQs About Top 10 Plays of the Year
What Criteria Are Used to Choose the Top 10 Plays of the Year?
The criteria for choosing the Top 10 Plays of the Year varies depending on the sport and the league. Generally, the plays are chosen based on their level of difficulty, their impact on the game or season, and their overall entertainment value.
Do Fans Get to Vote on the Top 10 Plays of the Year?
Yes, fans often have the opportunity to vote on the Top 10 Plays of the Year for their favorite sports leagues. The votes are usually combined with those of players, coaches, and analysts to determine the final list.
What Is the Most Memorable Top 10 Play of the Year?
According to a survey by ESPN, the most memorable Top 10 Play of the Year for fans was Odell Beckham Jr.’s one-handed catch in 2014. The catch, which was made during a game between the New York Giants and the Dallas Cowboys, has been called one of the greatest catches in NFL history.
Are Top 10 Plays of the Year Just for Fun, or Do They Have a Deeper Meaning?
While Top 10 Plays of the Year are certainly fun to watch, they also have a deeper meaning. They represent the incredible feats that athletes are capable of, and they inspire us to push ourselves to be better. They remind us that anything is possible if we work hard and never give up.