18
PRIME TIME
54
BOOK EXCERPT
This year’s youngest draft pick, Dragan Bender of Croatia, will try to grow his game in the NBA.
These 10 sackmasters ruled NFL backfields, inspiring fear in quarterbacks.
42
FROM THE PAGES OF SPORTS ILLUSTRATED
CLEVELAND’S PAIN
LeBron James brought home the city’s first major pro championship since 1964. A look back at the 52-year drought.
44
MUHAMMAD ALI
The greatest boxer of all time passed away in June. He made a huge impact in the ring and out of it.
46
MONICA ABBOTT
This record-setting flamethrower was the first woman in U.S. team sports to sign a $1 million contract.
48
ROLLER COASTERS
Riders are experiencing thrills on the new dive coaster.
50
BACK TO SCHOOL
Want to work in sports? We’ve got the jobs for you and the tools to get you there.
52
HOCKEY MASKS
You sent us your best goalie helmet designs. We’d like to see some in the crease.
2 / SPORTS ILLUSTRATED KIDS
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UNDISCOVERED MODEL
Bullpens remain baseball’s greatest mystery. Why is it still so hard to assemble a reliable group of relievers?
FAVORITES
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Freeze Frame Sports Cards August Birthdays Future Stars LOL Posters What’s the Call?
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Games Art Gallery Comic Cards Buzz Beamer
COVER Bill Frakes Photo Composition by SI Premedia
