When Prince Rogers Nelson tragically died on April 21, 2016, the 57-year-old music icon was given a level of reverence usually reserved for royalty. "Nobody's spirit was stronger, bolder or more creative," remarked President Barack Obama of the maverick funk and rock genius. And the world seemingly agreed, as such landmarks as New York's Apollo Theater, Australia's Melbourne Arts Center, New Orleans' Mercedes-Benz Superdome, his hometown Lowry Avenue Bridge in Minneapolis and city halls in both Los Angeles and Montreal were all bathed in Prince's signature purple.
It was a breathtaking sight, yet it was the outpouring of respect from the sports community that raised eyebrows.