The next few weeks, I will present the Top 25 Oklahoma Sports Figures over the past 10 years. So there be no mention of Jim Thorpe or Barry Switzer or naked Byron Houston. And, apparently, there will be no mention of me and my athletic exploits both during and after high school. I'll have you know that I was the Offensive MVP of my high school baseball team that finished only one game under .500. Where are my accolades? Who could possibly be a greater sports figure? How can there be 25 greater sports figures from Oklahoma? Find these answers after the jump.
25. Brad Penny
Born in Blackwell and graduate of Broken Arrow, the two-time All Star had the reputation of throwing the fastest average fastball during his time in the Show. His best year was 2007, when he won 16 games with a sparkling 3.03 ERA. Of course, Sally Kern could could sport a sub-4.00 ERA pitching in Dodger Stadium. Brad was a pretty good pitcher about 5 years ago. Now injuries and Ryan's Steakhouse have pushed him to the brink of the independent leagues.
As an aside, Brad is engaged to one of those hot Ukrainian dancers (see above) from that show where "Stars" Dance with Professional Dancers. I've never, ever watched this show. In fact, I hadn't heard of it before writing this article. I swear.