Sports · 1945
Post-War Champions and Record-Breaking Streaks
As World War II drew to a close, sports began to reclaim their place in American culture with extraordinary athletic feats and memorable championship victories. Returning servicemen and dedicated stars delivered unforgettable seasons that reignited the passion of fans worldwide.
- Golf / PGA Tour / 1945
Byron Nelson's Historic 11-Tournament Winning Streak
Byron Nelson dominated professional golf by winning an unprecedented 11 consecutive tournaments and 18 titles total in a single legendary year.
- Baseball / October 10, 1945
Detroit Tigers Win the World Series
MVP Hank Greenberg and the Detroit Tigers defeated the Chicago Cubs in a tense seven-game World Series to capture the championship title.
- Football / December 16, 1945
Cleveland Rams Capture NFL Championship
The Cleveland Rams narrowly defeated the Washington Redskins 15-14 in freezing conditions to win their first NFL title before relocating to Los Angeles.
- Ice Hockey / April 22, 1945
Toronto Maple Leafs Claim the Stanley Cup
The Toronto Maple Leafs held off a fierce comeback by the Detroit Red Wings to win Game 7 and secure the NHL championship.
- Baseball / October 23, 1945
Jackie Robinson Signs with Brooklyn Dodgers System
Branch Rickey signed Jackie Robinson to the Montreal Royals, taking the first monumental step toward breaking Major League Baseball's color barrier.
- College Football / December 1945
Doc Blanchard Wins the Heisman Trophy
Army fullback Felix 'Doc' Blanchard became the first junior ever to win the Heisman Trophy after leading the Cadets to an undefeated national championship season.
- Horse Racing / June 9, 1945
Hoop Jr. Wins the 71st Kentucky Derby
Jockey Eddie Arcaro rode Hoop Jr. to a dominant six-length victory in the Kentucky Derby after wartime racing restrictions were lifted.
- Boxing / February 23, 1945
Sugar Ray Robinson Defeats Jake LaMotta
Sugar Ray Robinson earned a unanimous decision over rival Jake LaMotta at Madison Square Garden in the third bout of their famed rivalry.
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