March 15

Born in London in 1902, Saperstein emigrated to the United States as a child. In 1926, he assembled a group of African American players for barnstorming basketball exhibitions. Under his leadership, the Harlem Globetrotters became renowned for their athletic skill and showmanship. Saperstein managed and coached the team, organizing tours across the United States and Europe. He also promoted professional baseball and soccer, demonstrating his passion for sports entrepreneurship. His vision helped popularize basketball worldwide and challenged racial barriers in sports.

Born in Italy in 1921 and raised in Argentina, Antonino Rocca brought a unique aerial agility to professional wrestling. He debuted in the United States in the 1940s and quickly became a top draw for the National Wrestling Alliance. Known for signature dives and thrilling ring entrances, Rocca headlined Madison Square Garden throughout the 1950s. His combination of athleticism and showmanship captivated fans and helped popularize wrestling as sports entertainment. After retiring from active competition, he served as a referee and trainer, mentoring future stars. Rocca's influence on wrestling persists through the high-flying styles common in modern rings. He passed away in 1977, remembered as one of the sport's first true superstars.

Tom Harmon was born in Indiana in 1919 and became a standout halfback at the University of Michigan. In 1940, he won the Heisman Trophy, Maxwell Award, and consensus All-American honors, cementing his place in college football history. Harmon served as a pilot in the Army Air Forces during World War II, flying combat missions in the Pacific Theater. After the war, he enjoyed a successful career as a sportscaster for ABC radio and television, where his enthusiastic commentary endeared him to fans nationwide. Known for his affable personality and deep knowledge of the game, he became a household name in American sports journalism. Harmon was inducted into the College Football Hall of Fame in 1954. He passed away in 1990, leaving a legacy as both an athletic and broadcasting legend.

Otar Korkia, born in 1923, was a pioneering figure in Georgian basketball and a key member of the Soviet national team. He helped secure a gold medal at the 1947 EuroBasket and a silver medal at the 1951 tournament, showcasing his skill on the continental stage. Korkia played domestically for Dinamo Tbilisi, leading the club to multiple Soviet league championships. After retiring as a player, he became a respected coach, promoting basketball development in Georgia. His impact on the sport in his homeland earned him recognition as one of the country's greatest basketball figures.

Red Storey was born in 1918 in Ontario, Canada, and excelled as a multi-sport athlete in his youth. He transitioned to officiating and became one of the most respected referees in the Canadian Football League. Storey officiated multiple Grey Cup finals and was known for his calm temperament and decisive rulings. Beyond football, he also served as a National Hockey League referee, contributing to professional hockey’s development in Canada. After retiring from on-field duties, he shared his expertise as a sports broadcaster and mentor to younger officials. He was inducted into the Canadian Football Hall of Fame in recognition of his outstanding contributions to the sport.

Born in Swansea in 1946, Mervyn Davies made his name as a dynamic flanker for Cardiff RFC and the Welsh national rugby union team. Nicknamed 'Merv the Swerve', he earned 38 caps for Wales from 1969 to 1978 and captained the team during a Triple Crown victory in 1976. Davies also led the British and Irish Lions on their 1977 tour of New Zealand. Renowned for his leadership, athleticism, and lineout skills, he is remembered as one of Wales' greatest rugby players. After retiring, he contributed to the sport as a commentator and administrator. He passed away in 2012 following a battle with cancer.

Dave Philley was an American professional outfielder who enjoyed a 22-year Major League Baseball career from 1941 to 1962. A switch-hitter known for his clutch pinch-hitting ability, he played for teams including the Philadelphia Athletics, Cleveland Indians, and Chicago White Sox. Philley led the American League in pinch hits three times and was respected for his defensive versatility. After retiring as a player, he served as a coach and scout for the White Sox organization. He finished his career with over 2,100 games played and amassed more than 2,000 hits. Philley died in 2012 at the age of 91.

Born in 1978 in Sigatoka, Fiji, Seru Rabeni earned the nickname 'Rubber' for his toughness and resilience on the field. He represented Fiji in multiple Rugby World Cups, showcasing his powerful running and defensive skills. Rabeni also played professionally in Europe for clubs such as Leicester Tigers and SU Agen, becoming a fan favorite for his dynamic performances. Off the field, he was committed to youth development and coaching in his home country. His passion for rugby and ability to inspire teammates made him a respected leader in Fijian sports. He tragically passed away in 2016, but his legacy continues to influence rugby players in Fiji and beyond.