Test Your Sports Knowledge: Match The Athlete To Their College

Do you know where sports legends began their rise to fame? From the courts of UCLA to the fields of Auburn, every iconic athlete started somewhere. This quiz invites you to uncover the college origins of 10 legendary athletes whose collegiate careers laid the foundation for their success.

Whether it’s Michael Jordan, Joe Namath, or Lou Gehrig, these stories are rich with history and inspiration. Each question will test your knowledge of sports history, revealing fascinating details about their time in college and the legacy they left behind.

Whether you're a die-hard sports fan or a casual enthusiast, this quiz offers the perfect blend of nostalgia and challenge. Ready to take a trip through the history books and prove your expertise? Dive in and see how many collegiate connections you can guess right! Getty Images / Nostalgic America, Inc.

QUIZ QUESTION # 1

Can you name the college this Athlete attended? Getty Images / Nostalgic America, Inc.

ANSWER: Lew Alcindor attended UCLA

Lew Alcindor, later known as Kareem Abdul-Jabbar, dominated college basketball at UCLA from 1966 to 1969 under coach John Wooden. A towering 7'2" center, Alcindor led the Bruins to three consecutive NCAA championships and an astounding 88-2 record. His unprecedented skill set—combining size, agility, and his signature skyhook—redefined the game. Alcindor’s dominance was so overwhelming that the NCAA banned dunking in 1967, a rule unofficially known as the "Alcindor Rule." Beyond statistics, he symbolized excellence on and off the court, earning the Naismith College Player of the Year award twice. His legacy remains integral to UCLA’s storied basketball tradition. Getty Images / Nostalgic America, Inc.

QUIZ QUESTION # 2

Can you name the college Bill Russell attended? Getty Images / Nostalgic America, Inc.

ANSWER: Bill Russell at University of San Francisco

Bill Russell transformed the University of San Francisco (USF) into a basketball powerhouse during his tenure from 1953 to 1956. A defensive and rebounding force, Russell led USF to back-to-back NCAA championships in 1955 and 1956, and an incredible 55-game win streak. Known for his shot-blocking and leadership, he revolutionized the game by using defense as a weapon. Russell also excelled offensively, averaging over 20 points and 20 rebounds per game during his collegiate career. His success at USF not only paved the way for his NBA dominance but also highlighted his role in breaking racial barriers in basketball. Getty Images / Nostalgic America, Inc.

QUIZ QUESTION # 3

Can you name the college this Athlete attended? Getty Images / Nostalgic America, Inc.

ANSWER: Bo Jackson attended Auburn

Bo Jackson electrified college football during his career at Auburn University from 1982 to 1985. A rare blend of power and speed, Jackson won the Heisman Trophy in 1985, rushing for 1,786 yards and 17 touchdowns that season. His memorable performances, including a stunning 256-yard game against rival Alabama, solidified his legacy. Known for his versatility, Jackson also starred in baseball for Auburn, showcasing his dual-sport dominance. His incredible athleticism made him one of the most iconic figures in college sports history, laying the foundation for his celebrated professional careers in both Major League Baseball and the NFL. Getty Images / Nostalgic America, Inc.

QUIZ QUESTION # 4

Can you name the college this Athlete attended? Getty Images / Nostalgic America, Inc.

ANSWER: Joe Namath attended University of Alabama

Joe Namath starred as quarterback for the University of Alabama under coach Bear Bryant from 1962 to 1964. Known for his strong arm, charisma, and quick decision-making, Namath led the Crimson Tide to a national championship in 1964. His poise in the pocket and leadership on the field earned him accolades, despite battling knee injuries that would later define his professional career. Namath’s success at Alabama foreshadowed his iconic NFL career, where his flair and confidence made him a cultural phenomenon. At Alabama, Namath epitomized the balance of discipline and star power that Bryant demanded of his players. Getty Images / Nostalgic America, Inc.

QUIZ QUESTION # 5

Can you name the college this Athlete attended? Getty Images / Nostalgic America, Inc.

ANSWER: Lou Gehrig attended Columbia University

Lou Gehrig played baseball at Columbia University in the early 1920s, showcasing the talent that would later make him a Hall of Famer with the New York Yankees. Known as "The Iron Horse," Gehrig initially drew attention as a standout pitcher, throwing a 17-strikeout game against Williams College. However, his batting prowess became his defining trait, with his powerful left-handed swing earning scouts’ admiration. Gehrig’s dominance at Columbia led to his signing with the Yankees in 1923, bypassing graduation. Though his collegiate career was brief, his time at Columbia remains a pivotal chapter in the story of one of baseball’s greatest legends. Getty Images / Nostalgic America, Inc.

QUIZ QUESTION # 6

Can you name the college this Athlete attended? Getty Images / Nostalgic America, Inc.

ANSWER: Michael Jordan attended University of North Carolina

Michael Jordan began his journey to basketball greatness at the University of North Carolina (UNC) from 1981 to 1984. Under coach Dean Smith, Jordan refined his skills, excelling in scoring, defense, and leadership. His iconic moment came as a freshman in the 1982 NCAA Championship, sinking the game-winning shot against Georgetown. Over three seasons, Jordan earned accolades, including the Naismith and Wooden Awards in 1984. He averaged 17.7 points per game and became known for his relentless work ethic. Jordan’s time at UNC laid the foundation for his legendary NBA career and cemented his status as a basketball icon. Getty Images / Nostalgic America, Inc.

QUIZ QUESTION # 7

Can you name the college this Athlete attended? Getty Images / Nostalgic America, Inc.

ANSWER: Mark Spitz attended Indiana University

Mark Spitz cemented his status as a swimming legend while competing for Indiana University under coach Doc Counsilman from 1968 to 1972. Spitz dominated collegiate swimming, winning eight NCAA titles across multiple events and setting numerous records. Known for his versatility, he excelled in freestyle and butterfly, demonstrating unmatched technique and competitiveness. Spitz’s time at Indiana prepared him for the global stage, where he famously won seven gold medals at the 1972 Munich Olympics. His collegiate achievements reflected his commitment to excellence and contributed to Indiana’s reputation as a powerhouse in swimming. Getty Images / Nostalgic America, Inc.

QUIZ QUESTION # 8

Can you name the college this Athlete attended? Getty Images / Nostalgic America, Inc.

ANSWER: Oscar Robertson attended University of Cincinnati

Oscar Robertson revolutionized college basketball during his tenure at the University of Cincinnati from 1957 to 1960. Known as “The Big O,” Robertson averaged an astonishing 33.8 points and 15.2 rebounds per game, dominating with his scoring, passing, and rebounding ability. A three-time consensus All-American, he led the Bearcats to two Final Four appearances. Despite facing racial discrimination, Robertson excelled with poise and brilliance. His impact on college basketball extended beyond the court, inspiring future generations of players. Robertson’s record-setting career remains one of the most remarkable in NCAA history. Getty Images / Nostalgic America, Inc.

QUIZ QUESTION # 9

Can you name the college Patrick Ewing attended? Getty Images / Nostalgic America, Inc.

ANSWER: Patrick Ewing attended Georgetown University

ANSWER: Patrick Ewing at GeorgetownPatrick Ewing became a cornerstone of Georgetown basketball from 1981 to 1985, leading the Hoyas to three NCAA championship game appearances and a national title in 1984. A dominant center, Ewing was known for his shot-blocking, rebounding, and imposing defensive presence. Under coach John Thompson, Ewing helped elevate Georgetown into a perennial powerhouse. His battles with rival centers, including Hakeem Olajuwon, became legendary. Ewing’s leadership, skill, and tenacity earned him numerous accolades, including multiple All-American honors. His collegiate career solidified his reputation as one of the greatest centers in basketball history. Getty Images / Nostalgic America, Inc.

QUIZ QUESTION # 10

Can you name the college Ralph Sampson attended? Getty Images / Nostalgic America, Inc.

ANSWER: Ralph Sampson attended University of Virginia

Ralph Sampson, a 7'4" phenom, dominated college basketball at the University of Virginia from 1979 to 1983. A three-time Naismith Player of the Year winner, Sampson combined size, agility, and finesse, redefining the center position. He led the Cavaliers to their first Final Four appearance in 1981 and earned national acclaim for his shot-blocking, scoring, and rebounding. Despite constant double-teams, Sampson averaged over 16 points and 11 rebounds per game. His towering presence and leadership transformed Virginia into a basketball powerhouse. Sampson’s illustrious college career remains one of the most decorated in NCAA history. Getty Images / Nostalgic America, Inc.