Top 5 Valentine's Day Sports Events in History

Photo Courtesy of Marc Viquez

Valentine's Day, celebrated on February 14, is known for love and romance, but throughout history, it has also seen dramatic, memorable, and sometimes surprising events in the world of sports venues. From remarkable achievements to unforgettable moments, sports venues have provided a unique backdrop for expressions of camaraderie and valiant efforts.

#5.  The Milwaukee Bucks' Valentine's Day Recovery (1981)

On February 14, 1981, at the Richfield Coliseum, the Milwaukee Bucks faced the Cleveland Cavaliers in an NBA game. After trailing significantly, the Bucks managed a historic comeback in the final quarter. They secured a 104-102 victory, showcasing the resilience of the team. The game celebrated not just athletic prowess but also the spirit of togetherness, with players dedicating the win to their loved ones.

#4.  St. Valentine's Day Massacre - WWF (1999)

The WWF (now WWE) hosted a dramatic pay-per-view event, "St. Valentine's Day Massacre," on February 14, 1999, at the Memphis Pyramid. This event featured major superstars, including the debut of Paul Wight (later known as The Big Show). It remains a notable milestone in professional wrestling history.

#3.  The Valentine’s Day Massacre in the NHL (1976)

One of the most notorious events in hockey history took place on February 14, 1976, at the Nassau Veterans Memorial Coliseum when the New York Islanders faced off against the New York Rangers. The game became famously known as the "Valentine’s Day Massacre." The Islanders triumphed with an astonishing score of 11-0, marking one of the most lopsided losses in NHL history. Fans were divided, with Islanders supporters celebrating love for their team while Rangers fans were left devastated.

#2.  Sugar Ray Robinson vs. Jake LaMotta (1951)

The legendary boxing match known as the "St. Valentine’s Day Massacre" took place on February 14, 1951, at Chicago Stadium (i.e., arena). Sugar Ray Robinson claimed the Middleweight Title from Jake LaMotta in a showcase of skill and heart.

#1. Super Bowl LXI (2027) 

On February 14, 2027, at SoFi Stadium in Inglewood, California, Super Bowl LXI will take place.. After efforts to designate it as a national holiday—given that it is the day most frequently called out by U.S. workers—the Super Bowl will now take place on the Sunday before Presidents' Day. This timing allows U.S. citizens to have the day off or take off, as Presidents' Day is widely recognized as a national holiday.

Chronological Honorable Mentions On February 14th

• 1896: George Lohmann records a hat-trick for England against South Africa in a cricket match, achieving a remarkable 8-7 innings.

• 1936: Maribel Vinson wins the U.S. female Figure Skating Championship, highlighting her prowess in competitive figure skating.

• 1951: Sugar Ray Robinson defeats Jake LaMotta to reclaim the middleweight title in a legendary boxing match known as the "St. Valentine’s Day Massacre."

• 1971: In the 13th Daytona 500, Richard Petty wins his third Great American Race and goes on to win the inaugural Winston Cup title, further establishing his legacy in NASCAR.

• 1976: The NHL's Valentine's Day Massacre occurs, where the New York Islanders defeat the New York Rangers 11-0, marking one of the most lopsided games in NHL history.

• 1981: The Milwaukee Bucks stage a remarkable comeback against the Cleveland Cavaliers, winning 104-102 and showcasing their resilience.

• 1982: Bobby Allison wins the 24th Daytona 500 with a margin of victory over Cale Yarborough, solidifying his reputation in the racing world.

• 1984: During the Sarajevo Winter Olympics, the romance of the event is highlighted as byJayne Torvill and Christopher Dean winning the gold medal with an iconic, revolutionary performance to Maurice Ravel's Boléro.

• 1993: In the 35th Daytona 500, Dale Jarrett, driving for Joe Gibbs Racing, wins from Dale Earnhardt and Geoff Bodine.

• 1999: The WWE hosts the St. Valentine's Day Massacre pay-per-view event featuring the debut of The Big Show.

• 1999: In the 41st Daytona 500, Jeff Gordon wins, and it's the first Daytona 500 pole sitter to win the race since Bill Elliott in 1987.

• 2008: The Los Angeles Lakers face the Boston Celtics in a fiercely competitive Valentine’s Day game, where fans enthusiastically embrace the spirit of the day.

• 2009: National Signing Day for college football recruits takes place, marking a day when many athletes publicly commit to their colleges.

• 2010: The 59th NBA All-Star Game occurs at Cowboys Stadium (now AT&T Stadium), setting a record with 108,713 fans in attendance. The Eastern Conference narrowly defeats the West 141-139.

• 2016: The 66th NBA All-Star Game takes place at the Air Canada Centre (now Scotiabank Centre) in Toronto, where the West beats the East 196-173, with Russell Westbrook named MVP.

• 2017: At the Laureus World Sports Awards, Usain Bolt and Simone Biles are honored as the Sportsman and Sportswoman of the Year, respectively.

• 2027: Super Bowl LXI on February 14, 2027, at SoFi Stadium in Inglewood, California.

Throughout history, Valentine's Day has woven itself into the fabric of sports culture. This day has marked moments where love and sports intersect in unique and engaging ways. As much as it's about romantic gestures, it’s also a day that reflects the spirit and camaraderie of sports, making it a special occasion for both fans and players alike.