Terry Rand
American basketball player
Played college basketball at the University of California, Los Angeles (UCLA) in the early 1970s. Contributed to the team winning the NCAA Championship in 1971. Had a professional career that included playing for various teams in the American Basketball Association (ABA) and later in the National Basketball Association (NBA). Following retirement from playing, focused on coaching and mentoring young athletes.
Won NCAA Championship with UCLA in 1971
Played in ABA and NBA
Coached youth basketball teams
Other People Born on November 17th
Soichiro Honda
Engineer, co-founder of Honda Motor Co.
Born
November 17th, 1906 119 years ago
Died
August 5th, 1991 34 years ago — 84 years old
An engineer and businessman, co-founded Honda Motor Company in 1948. Under leadership, Honda grew from a motorcycle manufacturer to a leading global automaker. Introduced innovative technologies and fuel-efficient vehicles, contributing to the expansion of the automotive industry. Developed the Honda Civic and Accord, which became iconic models and achieved widespread popularity. Honda was awarded several honorary degrees and industry accolades throughout the career.
Continue ReadingRuPaul
Drag queen performer and television host
Born
November 17th, 1960 65 years ago
A renowned drag queen, performer, actor, and singer, this individual gained prominence through a groundbreaking television competition series. The series showcased contestants competing in various challenges, emphasizing charisma, uniqueness, nerve, and talent. In addition to television work, this individual has released several music albums, including a hit single that charted on the Billboard Hot 100. The successful integration of drag culture into mainstream media has significantly shaped the entertainment landscape.
Continue ReadingEugene Wigner
Physicist and Nobel Prize laureate
Born
November 17th, 1902 123 years ago
Died
January 1st, 1995 31 years ago — 92 years old
Born in Hungary, contributed extensively to nuclear physics and quantum mechanics. Wigner developed the theory of symmetry operations in quantum mechanics and worked on the Manhattan Project during World War II. Later, he played a significant role in the development of nuclear reactors and conducted extensive research on the behavior of materials under radiation. Wigner received the Nobel Prize in Physics in 1963 for contributions to the understanding of the atomic nucleus, particularly concerning nuclear symmetry and the role of mathematical structures in quantum mechanics.
Continue ReadingGorō Naya
Japanese actor and director of anime
Born
November 17th, 1929 96 years ago
Died
2013 13 years ago — 84 years old
Born in 1929, this individual achieved prominence as an actor and director in Japanese television and film. Renowned for contributions to voice acting, particularly in the popular anime series 'Doraemon', provided the voice for the titular character for many years. Also directed various projects, impacting the anime industry.
Continue ReadingTom Seaver
Baseball pitcher, 3-time Cy Young Award winner
Born
November 17th, 1944 81 years ago
Died
August 31st, 2020 5 years ago — 75 years old
Esteemed as one of the greatest pitchers in baseball history, this individual played primarily for the New York Mets and the Cincinnati Reds. A prominent figure in Major League Baseball, he made his debut in 1967 and quickly established a reputation for his exceptional skills on the mound. Achieving multiple All-Star selections, this player was instrumental in leading the Mets to their first World Series championship in 1969. Over a career spanning more than two decades, he also garnered three Cy Young Awards for his outstanding performance. After retirement, he continued to contribute to the sport as a broadcaster and mentor to young players.
Continue ReadingSeth Lugo
Baseball player, New York Mets pitcher
Born
November 17th, 1989 36 years ago
An American baseball player primarily served as a pitcher for the New York Mets in Major League Baseball. Lugo began his professional career after being drafted in 2011 and made his MLB debut in 2016. Throughout his time with the Mets, he showcased versatility by functioning as both a starter and a reliever. Lugo achieved significant success with a notable season in 2019 when he posted a career-best earned run average, contributing to the team's pitching depth. In 2020, he played a key role in the team’s bullpen during a challenging season impacted by the COVID-19 pandemic.
Continue ReadingOther People Who Died on February 27th
Yi Cheol-seung
South Korean lawyer and politician
Born
1922 104 years ago
Died
February 27th, 2016 10 years ago — 94 years old
A prominent South Korean lawyer and politician, served as a member of the National Assembly. Active in legal reform and advocacy for justice in South Korea, contributed to various legislative initiatives. Participated in efforts to enhance legal education and support victims of injustice. Worked to incorporate human rights into South Korean law, promoting a more equitable legal system for citizens.
Continue ReadingJacques Plante
Ice hockey player and coach
Born
January 17th, 1929 97 years ago
Died
February 27th, 1986 40 years ago — 57 years old
Born in 1929, this ice hockey player played primarily as a goaltender. Achieved prominence in the National Hockey League (NHL) during the 1950s and 1960s. Most recognized for contributions to the Montreal Canadiens, where he won multiple championships. Transitioned into coaching and sportscasting later in career, sharing expertise and experience with audiences. His innovative goaltending techniques, including the use of the mask, changed the approach to the position for future generations.
Continue ReadingFrank Buckles
American soldier and World War I veteran
Born
February 1st, 1901 125 years ago
Died
February 27th, 2011 15 years ago — 110 years old
Enlisted in the United States Army at the age of 16 during World War I. Served as an ambulance driver with the 1st Fort Riley Casual Detachment. Participated in battles including the Meuse-Argonne Offensive. Completed military service in 1919, becoming the last recognized American veteran of World War I. Advocated for veterans' issues later in life. Served in World War II as a civilian director of a shipyard in the Pacific. Passed away in 2011, leaving a legacy as a link to a pivotal time in history.
Continue ReadingGeorge H. Hitchings
Pharmacologist and Nobel Prize laureate
Born
April 18th, 1905 121 years ago
Died
February 27th, 1998 28 years ago — 92 years old
A prominent pharmacologist and academic contributed significantly to the field of medicine. Pioneered research in chemotherapy, focusing on the development of antiviral and antibacterial agents. Collaborated with other researchers in the formation of essential medicines that advanced treatment methodologies. Received the Nobel Prize in Physiology or Medicine in 1988 for discoveries related to drug development and therapeutic compounds, which have had a lasting influence on modern pharmaceutical practices.
Continue ReadingAaron Allston
Game designer and author
Born
December 8th, 1960 65 years ago
Died
February 27th, 2014 12 years ago — 53 years old
Worked primarily in the gaming industry and science fiction literature. Contributed to role-playing games and created content for popular franchises, including 'Star Wars.' Authored several novels and game supplements, merging storytelling with gameplay mechanics. Helped design video games, including 'Star Wars: X-Wing' and its sequels, which became influential in the genre. Continued to produce content until death in 2014.
Continue ReadingLinda Smith
English comedian and author of 'A Burroughs' Wit
Born
1958 68 years ago
Died
February 27th, 2006 20 years ago — 48 years old
An English comedian and author gained attention in the 1990s for sharp observational humor and social commentary. Developed a distinctive style that combined wit and intelligence, often discussing contemporary issues. Appeared on numerous television programs, including 'Have I Got News for You' and 'The News Quiz.' Authored several books, with 'A Burroughs' Wit' showcasing her talent for blending humor with personal anecdotes. Demonstrated a unique ability to engage audiences through live performances and written works.
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