February 14 in Sports History: Records, Championships, and a 100-Point Legend Remembered
Valentine’s Day has delivered unforgettable moments across basketball, hockey, and the Olympic stage. From record-breaking dominance to historic milestones, February 14 holds a unique place in sports history.
Here are some of the biggest moments ever recorded on this date.
1987 — Wayne Gretzky Becomes First Player to Reach 170 Points in a Season
On February 14, 1987, Edmonton Oilers superstar Wayne Gretzky recorded an assist to reach 170 points for the season, becoming the first player in NHL history to hit that mark.
Gretzky would finish the 1986-87 season with 183 points, leading the Oilers toward another Stanley Cup championship and further cementing his legacy as the greatest offensive player in hockey history.
Why it matters:
Gretzky redefined scoring in hockey, and this milestone remains one of the most extraordinary single-season achievements in NHL history.
1967 — Wilt Chamberlain Sets NBA Record with 16 Straight Field Goals
On February 14, 1967, Philadelphia 76ers center Wilt Chamberlain made NBA history by hitting 16 consecutive field goals in a single game, setting a league record that stood for decades.
Chamberlain finished the night with 40 points and 22 rebounds, showcasing his efficiency and dominance during one of the greatest seasons by a team in NBA history. The 76ers would go on to win the 1967 NBA Championship, widely considered one of the greatest teams ever assembled.
Why it matters:
The performance highlighted Chamberlain’s evolution from scorer to unstoppable all-around force and remains one of the NBA’s most remarkable efficiency records.
2010 — Canada Opens Olympic Hockey Tournament on Home Ice (Vancouver Winter Olympics)
On February 14, 2010, the men’s Olympic hockey tournament began in Vancouver, marking the start of one of the most iconic Olympic hockey competitions ever, highlighted later by Sidney Crosby’s “Golden Goal.”
The opening day showcased the beginning of Canada’s quest for gold on home ice, one of the defining storylines of the 2010 Winter Olympics.
Why it matters:
The Vancouver hockey tournament became one of the most memorable in Olympic history and helped grow the global popularity of the sport.
2003 — Michael Jordan Makes Final Valentine’s Day Appearance During Last NBA Season
On February 14, 2003, legend Michael Jordan played one of his final February regular-season games during his farewell NBA season.
Even at age 39–40, Jordan continued to draw sellout crowds and global attention, finishing his final season averaging 20.0 points per game, an incredible feat for a player in his 15th and final campaign.
Why it matters:
Jordan’s final season marked the closing chapter of the most influential career in basketball history.
February 14: A Day of Legendary Performances
From Gretzky’s scoring brilliance to Wilt’s record-setting dominance, February 14 has delivered unforgettable moments across multiple sports. The date continues to stand as a reminder of greatness, records, and historic milestones in sports history.
Image Credit: Wikimedia Commons
