Mic’ed Up: When Star Athletes Spill their Guts

by James Robles

When athletes go up in flames it can be assumed their adoring fans will fan them on. Tiger Wood’s recent scandal has left the nation twittering in morbid delight, and basking in the revelation that even super star athletes aren’t perfect. The media presence following the golfing great has been unprecedented. Woods will be speaking out tomorrow morning for the first time sense the allegations. A look into the past reveals a few of the most anticipated press conferences of all time.

Mark McGuire Comes Clean

January 11^th, 2010, Mark McGuire admits to his lengthy steroid use during a heartfelt interview with Bob Costas. Holding back tears, McGuire said, “The truth will set you free”, and “It was the stupidest thing I did.” Whether McGuire will make it into the Hall of Fame has yet to be decided, but his candid interview was certainly the most recent and surprising of its kind.

Magic Johnson Announces Retirement

Johnson’s November 7^th, 1991, press conference was an unforgettable day in sports history. Announcing both his retirement from basketball and his positive HIV test results was Magic’s surprise shook both the NBA and its fans. His speech was composed, and in true Magic Johnson fashion, he made light of the situation with optimism and humor.

Michael Jordan Returns

March 18^th, 1995, Michael Jordan returns to the Bulls. His first game back found him competing in a nationally televised game against the Pacers in Indianapolis. One of two NBA returns Jordan would eventually announce, the first certainly held more weight. The escape from retirement and his return to basketball was more of a shocker then such announcements are today.

Kobe Bryant Claims Innocence

May 7^th, 2008, Bryant speaks in a press conference, claiming his innocence of sexual assault charges.  A quiet Kobe, looking stupefied by his situation hung his head while his attorney gave an opening statement. Later in the press conference Kobe held back tears saying, “I’m a human being, and a man like everybody else.” The accusations marred the temporarily damaged Kobe’s image, but now his jersey is the #1 seller in the NBA.