John J. Kim / baiduhaiThe Blackhawks traded young forward Teuvo Teravainen and veteran forward Bryan Bickell to the Carolina Panthers for a 2016 second-round and 2017 third-round pick. On Nov. 11, Bickell announced he was diagnosed with multiple sclerosis; "I am hopeful I will be able to return to the ice and continue playing the game that I love."
David M. Russell / APWow. After 13 seasons (and 3 titles) with the Miami Heat, Dwyane Wade announced he was signing with his hometown Bulls. The next day, he co-hosted "Live with Kelly" with Kelly Ripa, which is totally normal. Nine days later, the Richards H.S. grad signed his two-year, $47.5 million contract to join a new-look Bulls team. In: Wade, Rajon Rondo, Robin Lopez and first-round pick Denzel Valentine. Out: Derrick Rose, Joakim Noah, Mike Dunleavy and Pau Gasol. Wade started the "Spotlight On" campaign during Bulls games to showcase a Chicago teenager making positive changes in the community. On the lighter side: He won a World Series bet with Indians fan LeBron James, which is why James arrived at a Dec. 2 game at the United Center in a full Cubs uniform.
Chris Sweda / baiduhaiThe Cowboys' Ezekiel Elliott runs over the Bears' Adrian Amos in the second quarter at AT&T Stadium in Arlington, Tex., on Sept. 25, 2016.
John J. Kim / baiduhai"He doesn't have a choice, I guess, at this point. Brian (Hoyer) is out, so I've got to go." -- Bears quarterback on whether he felt supported by coach John Fox as he returned as the starter in Week 8.
Erin Hooley / baiduhaiMichael Harriss cries at the Cubby Bear across from Wrigley Field after the Cubs defeated the Dodgers in Game 6 of the NLCS, sending them to the World Series on Oct. 22, 2016.
Brian Cassella / baiduhaiFans walk the concourse before a Cubs-Reds game at Wrigley Field on Sept. 19, 2016.
Brian Cassella / baiduhaiThe Cubs locked down Theo Epstein with a five-year contract extension: "There's no place I'd rather be." Two days later, GM Jed Hoyer and senior vice president of scouting/player development Jason McLeod signed their own five-year contracts as well. All of this came after Epstein sported a fake mustache and sat in the bleachers with his front office during a Cubs-Brewers game on Sept. 16.
John J. Kim / baiduhaiMembers of the O'Brien family -- 6-year-old Joey, 6, 11-year-old Danny, 9-year-old Marty and their father John -- watch the Mariners take batting practice before a game against the White Sox at U.S. Cellular Field on Aug. 26, 2016.
Erin Hooley / baiduhaiThe Bears' Logan Paulsen grabs Jordan Howard after Howard scored a touchdown during the first half against the 49ers at snowy Soldier Field on Dec. 4, 2016.
Chris Sweda / baiduhai"Anybody that's performing well, I don't think we're going to be likely to change." -- Bears coach on the play of quarterback Brian Hoyer in early October.
Zbigniew Bzdak / baiduhaiLovie Smith signed a six-year deal to be the head football coach at the University of Illinois. Ticket sales went up dramatically in the first few days of the former Bears coach's hiring. The Illini went 3-9 (2-7 in the Big Ten) in Smith's first season. Bill Cubit, Smith's predecessor, was relieved of his coaching duties two days earlier. Cubit took over on an interim basis for coach Tim Beckman on Aug. 28, 2015, and had the interim tag removed, along with a two-year contract, on Nov. 28, 2015.
Terrence Antonio James / baiduhai"I remember looking at the TV -- we had this little-bitty TV, about as big as iPhones now -- and saying: 'That's what I want to do. That's what I want to be. I want to be a champion. And that's who I want to do it with.' My dream of becoming an NBA player started in my hometown. I know it took a long time to get here. But I'm excited to be here. I can't tell you guys in words what this moment means to me." -- Bulls guard on signing with his hometown team and relating an anecdote about watching the 1991 championship as a 9-year-old.
Brian Cassella / baiduhaiWhite Sox left fielder Melky Cabrera goes up high along the wall to catch a long fly ball hit by the Cubs' Kris Bryant in the first inning on July 25, 2016 at U.S. Cellular Field.
Erin Hooley / baiduhaiFans take in the Blackhawks vs. Wild/North Stars during the 2016 NHL Stadium Series Alumni Game at TCF Bank Stadium on the campus of the University of Minnesota on Feb. 20, 2016, in Minneapolis. Minnesota won the game 6-4.
Armando L. Sanchez / baiduhai"Somebody walked out those doors the other day, and it was the wrong guy, plain and simple." -- Former White Sox left-hander during a rant about Adam LaRoche's retirement over his son's clubhouse time. Sale said the Sox players got "bald-face lied to" by executive vice president Ken Williams during the controversy.
Nuccio DiNuzzo / baiduhai"I knew who could be selling weed, who could be a crack freak, who would try to talk them into going with some hookers somewhere." -- Anthony Rizzo's father on shielding his son from trouble during his teenage years.
Graham Hughes / AP"I never played with someone who actually wanted me to have the puck." -- Canadiens winger and former Blackhawk on playing with David Desharnais.
Anthony Souffle / baiduhai"Nobody is in panic mode yet. It's the preseason, and we understand [the fans] want to see us do well, and we want to do well. But when it starts rolling, I feel like we are going to be a great football team and really put it all together. Let's stick together, Chicago, because we can win." -- Bears tight end on what he would say to discouraged fans after they fell to 0-3 in the preseason with a lifeless 23-7 home loss to the Chiefs.
Chris Sweda / baiduhaiKris Bryant and Anthony Rizzo hug as the rest of the Cubs celebrate winning the World Series over the Indians at Progressive Field on Nov. 2, 2016.
baiduhaiChris Sale was a late scratch for his scheduled White Sox start at home vs. the Tigers. Flu? Minor injury? Trade? Wrong. Sale was sent home after, no joke, destroying some of the 1976 throwback uniforms because they are uncomfortable to wear. Sale had asked to pitch in different uniforms, but the throwbacks were part of a promotional giveaway. "I'll never understand why we need to do something on the business side on the field that might impede us winning a game," Sale later said. He was suspended for five games.
Brian Cassella / baiduhaiFans in the upper level watch as Leo plays Bishop McNamara in boys basketball on Feb. 2, 2016.
Rick Osentoski / AP"It's like horseshoes and hand grenades. Close doesn't really count." -- Bears coach, unfamiliar with the concepts of horseshoes and hand grenades.
Ronald Cortes / Getty Images"Zero. None. Absolutely none." -- Notre Dame coach when asked whether he has any culpability for the academic fraud scandal that could force the program to vacate 21 victories from 2012 and 2013.
John J. Kim / baiduhaiThe Cubs' new 30,000-square-foot clubhouse was revealed, complete with a Las Vegas-like players lounge, hyperbaric chambers, a 3,800-square-foot training room, new weight room and rehab facilities. Also added: A celebration room (disco ball and fog machine included).
Chris Sweda / baiduhai"I'm not bitter," Robbie Gould said after the Bears cut the veteran kicker before the final 53-man roster was set. Gould, the last link to the last Bears' Super Bowl team, left Chicago as the all-time leader in career points (1,207), field goals made (276) and career field goals made of 50 yards or longer (23). The Bears signed Connor Barth, and Gould eventually signed with the Giants.
Nuccio DiNuzzo / baiduhaiThe Cubs jumped all over Dodgers starter Clayton Kershaw early en route to a 5-0 win in Game 6 of the NLCS to win their first pennant since 1945. No more "Wait 'til next year" for the Cubs and fans. No more talk about curses or goats. The Cubs are playing in the World Series. Could the Cubs win four more? Could the city of Chicago handle it? Stay tuned.
Kidwiler Collection / Getty ImagesBuddy Ryan, the famed inventor of the 46 defense who was carried off the field by his players after the Bears' victory in Super Bowl XX, died. He was 85. Ryan's health had been deteriorating, as featured in ESPN's "30 for 30" on the '85 Bears. Always quotable, he said of observers trying to simplify the 46 defense: "Some say the 46 is just an eight-man front. That's like saying Marilyn Monroe is just a girl."
David J. Phillip / APCubs' Kris Bryant was a near-unanimous NL MVP (first-place votes on 29 of 30 ballots), becoming the fourth player to win rookie and MVP honors in consecutive seasons. He batted .292 with 39 home runs and 102 RBIs in the Cubs' 2016 season. Bryant was the first Cub to win MVP since Sammy Sosa (1998). "I feel like good guys finish first, so being humble and being a good role model for kids, that's something I strive for more than putting up good numbers or any of my individual goals," Bryant said after winning. Aw.
Nuccio DiNuzzo / baiduhai"Champagne is the best smell in baseball." -- Cubs president after team clinched National League Central title.
Antonio Perez / baiduhaiCubs fans celebrate along 18th St. and Racine Ave. in Chicago's Pilsen neighborhood after the Cubs won the World Seires on Nov. 3, 2016.
Nuccio DiNuzzo / baiduhaiBlackhawks goalie Corey Crawford fights with Blues center Robby Fabbri in the second period of a game at the United Center on April 19, 2016.
Antonio Perez / baiduhaiSoccer fans mingle outside the UIC Flames soccer field in hopes of spotting Lionel Messi and his Argentinian national teammates as they practice in secrecy behind clothed fencing on June, 8, 2016.
Erin Hooley / baiduhaiWith 1,122 good dogs in attendance, the White Sox set a record for most dogs at a sporting event during a game against the Indians at U.S. Cellular Field. "They were a little noisy but it's kind of fun," outfielder Adam Eaton said. "It brings a different atmosphere to the ballpark. I think that's one of the beauties of The Cell, really nothing is off limits."
Nancy Stone / baiduhaiMurphy's Bleachers bartenders Kelly Vargo, Leigha Wondergem and Laura Blackburn celebrate as the Cubs take a lead in the 10th inning of Game 7 of the World Seires on Nov. 2, 2016.
baiduhai, AP photosThe Bulls traded Derrick Rose, their former No. 1 pick, Rookie of the Year and MVP, to the Knicks for Robin Lopez, Jerian Grant and Jose Calderon. The Chicago native missed 257 games during eight seasons with the Bulls, including the entirety of the 2012-13 season and most of 2013-14. Bulls GM Gar Forman: "Derrick has obviously meant a lot to this team, this franchise and the city. We thought it was the right decision for the direction we're headed." On July 8, Joakim Noah joined Rose on the Knicks, his hometown team.
baiduhaiWhat, after 108 years, you thought it would be easy? The reward from clawing back from a 3-1 deficit in the World Series to the Indians was a Game 7 in Cleveland that lasted 10 innings (with a fun 17-minute rain delay) and saw the Cubs blow a four-run lead before winning 8-7. Ben Zobrist was named the World Series MVP after his go-ahead double in the 10th (and maybe other clutch hits in the series). David Ross was carried off the field. Bill Murray partied with the Cubs in the clubhouse. And Chicago, well it didn't burn down. Two days later, the victors were feted with a parade from Wrigley Field to Grant Park, where a rally was held for a few of their closest million or so friends. What followed: Saturday Night Live, Jimmy Kimmel and Disney World among many other outings. We repeat: The Cubs won the World Series.
Nancy Stone / baiduhaiFour Dominican Sisters who teach at St. Ignatius borrowed a "W" fllag from two, 14-year-old boys to take a photo in front of Wrigley Field ahead of Game 7 of the World Series on Nov. 2, 2016.
Brian Cassella / baiduhaiThe Cubs celebrate after the final out of Game 7 of the World Series on Nov. 3, 2016.
Nuccio DiNuzzo / baiduhai"Let's be honest. For a while there, we forgot the 'not' in 'Try Not to Suck."' -- Cubs president on the Cubs' miserable struggles before winning a World Series.
Chris Sweda / baiduhaiA shirtless Cubs fan stands on Waveland Ave. while waiting for the start of Game 3 of the World Series against the Indians at Wrigley Field on Oct. 28, 2016.
John J. Kim / baiduhaiKris Bryant signs autographs before a game against the Giants at Wrigley Field on Sept. 4, 2016.
Nuccio DiNuzzo / baiduhai"When I get mad I feel like hurting myself. I don't get it. That's the immaturity part coming out. I have to get over some things." -- Former White Sox pitcher who smacked himself in the head twice with a baseball during a game May 7 against the Twins.
Brian Cassella / baiduhaiPerformers during the Opening Ceremony of the Rio Olympics on Aug. 5, 2016, at Maracana Stadium.
Kidwiler Collection / Diamond Images/Getty Images"He hated rookies and he hated co wards. If you were going to play for him, you had to lay it on the line every single day. There were games when we lost, but we had been so dominating as a defense you could almost see the pride in his eyes that Monday morning when we got ready to show that film." -- Former Bears safety on former defensive coordinator Buddy Ryan, who died on June 28.
Jose M. Osorio / baiduhai"We are aware of the fact that there's kind of a league-wide disrespect of the Chicago Bears. I know that we're not very appreciative of it and we're looking forward to getting after it." -- Bears right guard on the team's reputation as training camp began.
AP, Getty ImagesCan you say rebuild? White Sox GM Rick Hahn was the talk of the winter meetings after a 30-hour blitz in which ace Chris Sale was traded to the Red Sox for four prospects. And a day later, outfielder Adam Eaton was traded to the Nationals for three prospects. A day later, no trades. C'mon Hahn.
Nuccio DiNuzzo / baiduhaiDerrick Rose points to fans after an 18-point performance for the Bulls against the Kings at the United Center on March 21, 2016.
Nancy Stone / baiduhai"I blacked out for a minute." -- Cubs pitcher on his pinch-hit, two-strike squeeze bunt that completed a comeback victory in extra innings July 31 against the Mariners.
Brian Cassella / baiduhaiElena Delle Donne, gold medalist. The U.S. women's basketball team won its sixth consecutive gold medal, but it was the first for the 2015 WNBA MVP. Delle Donne also helped the Chicago Sky reached the playoffs, she but had season-ending thumb surgery and missed the two weeks of the regular season. She also announced her engagement to girlfriend Amanda Clifton in the August issue of Vogue.
Chris Sweda / baiduhaiThe Cubs acquired closer Aroldis Chapman from the Yankees for four players. His arrival in Chicago came with questions – Chapman was suspended the first 30 games of the season with the Yankees due to a new domestic violence policy. Chapman had a heavy workload in the postseason with the Cubs, including three saves in the NLDS against the Giants, two innings of work in Game 6 of the NLCS to secure the pennant, and was officially listed as the Game 7 winner in the World Series.
Brian Cassella / baiduhai"I believe in family vacations. I believe in taking time off. I believe if it's your best friend's birthday, you take the day off and go spend it with her. That's time you can't get back." -- Chicago native explaining the unorthodox coaching philosophy that she used with Olympic gold medalist Simone Biles.
Brian Cassella / baiduhaiThe bad luck for 2015 Bears first-round pick Kevin White continued. After missing his entire rookie season with a stress fracture in his shin, White was hurt (fractured left fibula/high ankle sprain) in a Week 4 win over the Lions. What followed for the Bears: 17 other players on injured reserve, including Jay Cutler, Brian Hoyer, Kyle Long, Danny Trevathan and Zach Miller.
Alyssa Pointer / baiduhaiA man jumps from a light pole at Sheffield and Waveland after the Cubs won Game 6 of the NLCS against the Dodgers to advance to the World Series on Oct. 22, 2016.
Gregory Shamus / Getty Images"We have ADS syndrome -- Ain't Done Squat." -- Western Michigan coach and former NIU receiver after his team started 5-0. (It's now 13-0.)
Brian Cassella / baiduhai"I wanted to throw up, but I knew I couldn't." -- Cubs catcher after hitting a home run Oct. 11 during the NLDS.
Chris Sweda / baiduhai"Not that I have anything against mimes. He was very loquacious with his hands." -- Cubs manager after the team brought in mimes to lead a workout during spring training.
Erin Hooley / baiduhaiWhite Sox's Adam LaRoche delivered a spring training surprise of his own by abruptly announcing his retirement from baseball (and walking away from a $13 million contract). Days later, news came out that LaRoche's decision was the team's rule that Drake LaRoche, his 14-year-old son, wouldn't be allowed in the clubhouse every day. What followed: Players threatened to sit out a spring training game, Chris Sale hung Drake's jersey in his locker and Adam Eaton called Drake a "leader." In the end, Adam LaRoche stayed retired, the White Sox moved on, and the father-son duo later threw out the first pitch before a Nationals playoff game.
Chris Sweda / baiduhaiDexter Fowler prepares to bat, wearing a Miami Dolphins football helmet during a simulated game at Wrigley Field ahead of the NLDS on Oct. 4, 2016.
Chris Sweda / baiduhaiThe Cubs had seven players named to the NL All-Star team, including the entire infield: Anthony Rizzo (first base), Ben Zobrist (second base), Addison Russell (shortstop) and Kris Bryant (third base). Pitchers Jake Arrieta and Jon Lester and outfielder Dexter Fowler were also on the team. In the game, Bryant homered off White Sox ace Chris Sale, but the AL won 4-2 for homefield advantage in the World Series.
Chris Sweda / baiduhaiSecurity guards chase down a man who ran onto the field during a White Sox-Mariners game at U.S. Cellular Field on Aug. 25, 2016.
John Raoux / APThe NCAA orders Notre Dame to vacate wins from 2012-13 (12-1 record) and 2013-14 (9-4) football seasons in academic misconduct case tied to an athletic trainer helping eight football payers. The school said it would appeal the decision. The 2016 football season was the worst for the Irish in a decade at 4-8. There were rumors that coach Brian Kelly might leave the school, but he issued a late-night tweet through the school saying, "I'm fully committed to leading this program in the future."
Pablo Martinez Monsivais / AP"I haven't given up hope on the Bulls or the White Sox or the Bears — heck, I'd even take the Cubs." -- President during the Blackhawks' visit to the White House on Feb. 18 to celebrate their 2015 Stanley Cup championship.
Jon Durr / Getty ImagesThe White Sox turned their THIRD triple play of season during a loss to the Braves at U.S. Cellular Field. The first: April 22, and it went 9-3-2-6-2-5 (yes, you read that correctly). The second: May 18, and it was a more conventional around-the-horn play started by Todd Frazier at third. They also turned one in spring training. Wizards.
Nuccio DiNuzzo / baiduhaiDavid Ross celebrates in the Wrigley clubhouse after the Cubs won Game 6 of the NLCS at advance to the World Series on Oct. 22, 2016.
Brian Cassella / baiduhaiUsain Bolt and Jamaica take gold in the 400-meter relay at Olympic Stadium in Rio de Janeiro Aug. 19, 2016.
Erin Hooley / baiduhaiDexter Fowler slides safely past Phillies catcher Cameron Rupp to score on a hit from Anthony Rizzo in the first inning at Wrigley Field on May 29, 2016.
Armando L. Sanchez / baiduhaiAfter a fourth consecutive losing season. Robin Ventura announced on the last day of the season that he would not return to the White Sox next season. "I enjoy this place. I love this place," he said. "At the end, it probably needs a new voice." Ventura's White Sox went 375-435 in his five seasons. A day later, bench coach Rick Renteria was introduced as the team's 40th manager. He's the second person to manage both teams in Chicago. And, he already knew the passcode to the locker room. So win-win.
Brian Cassella / baiduhaiKris Bryant and Anthony Rizzo share a snack in the dugout before their workout ahead of Game 3 of the NLDS against the Giants on Oct. 9, 2016.
Scott Strazzante / baiduhaiBryan Robinson, a 14-year NFL veteran who spent six seasons with the Bears from 1998 to 2003, was found dead in a Milwaukee motel room. He was 41. Robinson is probably best remembered for the "Walter Payton game" on Nov. 7, 1999. In the Bears' first game after the death of the Hall of Famer, Robinson blocked a 28-yard field-goal attempt by the Packers to preserve a 14-13 win. "I think Walter Payton actually picked me up a little bit and boosted me up in the air because I can't jump that high," Robinson said after the game. "Walter had a lot to do with it. I know he did."
Bruce Bennett / Getty ImagesPatrick Kane became the first American-born and U.S.-trained player to win the Hart Memorial Trophy for the NHL's most valuable player. Just look at his 2015-16 numbers: A 26-game points streak that set a franchise record, and career-highs of 46 goals, 60 assists and 106 points to become the first U.S.-born player to lead the league in scoring.
John J. Kim / baiduhaiMaine South's Nick Leongas celebrates with teammates after beating Loyola 27-17 in the Class 8A championship game at Memorial Stadium on Nov. 26, 2016.
Richard Harbaugh / ABC"On one hand, your cousin's death is used as a ploy for political gain. I was grateful that it started a conversation, but on the other hand, it just [left] a bad taste in my mouth because of what my family is dealing with." -- Bulls guard during an appearance on "Good Morning America" in response to then-presidential candidate Donald Trump tweeting about the murder of Wade's cousin Nykea Aldridge to make a point about violence in Chicago and the African American community.
Brian Cassella / baiduhaiThe Blackhawks were ousted in the first round of the playoffs by the Blues – their earliest exit since 2012. The Blues held a 3-1 series lead but were forced to a deciding Game 7, which they won on their home ice 3-2.
Chris Sweda / baiduhaiThe Bears gathered to celebrate the 30th anniversary of their Super Bowl XX win over the Patriots. More than 40 players and coaches came together at Soldier Field, including Mike Ditka, Jim McMahon, Steve McMichael, Otis Wilson, Mike Singletary, William Perry and Kevin Butler. On Feb. 4, ESPN debuted the "30 for 30" on the '85 Bears. The two-hour film prominently highlighted defensive coordinator Buddy Ryan.
Brian Cassella / baiduhai"We lost a leader in Drake." -- Former White Sox center fielder on 14-year-old Drake LaRoche, the son of former Sox first baseman Adam LaRoche, who was no longer allowed in the team's clubhouse.
Brian Cassella / baiduhaiCubs fans arrive for Game 1 of the NLCS at Wrigley Field on Oct. 15, 2016.
E. Jason Wambsgans / baiduhaiThe White Sox announced Jason Benetti, a graduate of Homewood-Flossmoor High School, would do play-by-play of home games along with Steve Stone. Ken "The Hawk" Harrelson continued to call road games. Benetti called it a "dream job," and Sox fans enjoyed his banter with Stone.
Chris Sweda / baiduhai10-year-old Cullen Daly, of Moline, shows off his Addison Russell-inspired haircut to the Cubs shortstop at the Cubs Convention on Jan. 16, 2016.
Chris Sweda / baiduhai"Everybody loves that feistiness I think he brings every game. So he's an irreplaceable guy in that regard." -- Blackhawks coach on Andrew Shaw in April, two months before the Hawks traded Shaw to the Canadiens.
Brian Cassella / baiduhai"We're mired in mediocrity. That's not the goal. That's not acceptable. … The goal was to put ourselves in a situation to win a championship, and (being) stuck at .500 or around .500 doesn't do that. We may well have to adjust and take a longer-term view and take a different approaching going forward." -- White Sox general manager on the state of the club before the August trade deadline. The session with reporters signaled a shift in Sox thinking about rebuilding.
Nuccio DiNuzzo / baiduhaiThe NHL suspended Blackhawks' Andrew Shaw for one game after he used a homophobic slur during a penalty box tirade in Game 4 of the playoffs against the St. Louis Blues. He was also fined $5,000 and ordered to undergo sensitivity training. "I wanted to apologize for my actions — I have no excuses for anything," Shaw said. "I want to apologize to the gay and lesbian community. That's not the type of guy I am." On June 24, the Blackhawks traded Shaw to the Montreal Canadiens for two picks.
Armando L. Sanchez / baiduhaiJason Hammel thought the surprise would be "some circus animal or weird magician." Because, Joe Maddon. But no, it was Dexter Fowler! Fowler, who had reportedly signed a three-year contract with the Orioles earlier in the week, surprised everyone by arriving at Cubs spring training after signing a one-year deal. And, spoiler alert, it worked out pretty well for the Cubs. On Dec. 9, Fowler signed a lucrative, five-year deal with the Cardinals.
Chris Sweda / baiduhaiThe Wrigley Field marquee is reflected in a window at Sports World featuring an image of Kris Bryant on Sept. 13, 2016.
John J. Kim / baiduhai"You think about the length of time and the generations that have passed through and dedicated themselves to this team or appreciated this team or appreciated this ballpark. It's a character-builder to be a fan of the Chicago Cubs." -- Pearl Jam singer and Evanston native on the Cubs' playoff run.
Brian Cassella / baiduhai"I decided I'm not at all going to hide anything." -- Sky forward after she confirmed her engagement to girlfriend Amanda and publicly acknowledged her sexual orientation for the first time.
Chris Sweda / baiduhaiThe Cavaliers' LeBron James shadowboxes with a cardboard cut-out likeness of himself dressed in a Cubs uniform after warm-ups for a game against the Bulls at the United Center on Dec. 2, 2016. James had to wear a Cubs uniform from the team bus to the locker room after losing a World Series bet with Dwyane Wade.
Erin Hooley / baiduhaiFans celebrate outside of Wrigley Field the Cubs won Game 7 of the World Series against the Indians at Progressive Field in Cleveland on Nov. 2, 2016.
Nancy Stone / baiduhaiJavier Baez is mobbed by teammates after his walk-off home run in the 13th inning against the Nationals at Wrigley on May 8, 2016 (it was Mother's Day, hence the pink garb).
Michael Caterina / AP"Like any other father, my first one was disappointment. Then I think that disappointment kind of moved on to embarrassment for the university. Then I was mad as hell." -- Notre Dame football coach on the arrest of six of his players in two separate incidents before the season.
Chris Sweda / baiduhai79-year-old Joyce Williams, of Moscoda, Wisc., puts her lucky Cubs hat on prior to watching the first spring training game of the season at Sloan Park in Mesa, Ariz., on March 4, 2016.
Brian Cassella / baiduhaiThe Cubs mob Aroldis Chapman and David Ross as they celebrate their Game 4 win in the NLDS against the Giants on Oct. 11, 2016 at AT&T Park in San Francisco.
Timothy D. Easley / APLoyola fired women's basketball coach Sheryl Swoopes as a result of an investigation for alleged player mistreatment. Swoopes, a Hall of Fame player, had been under the microscope since April, when Loyola announced it had launched a university investigation after a rash of player transfers. The school later hired a law firm to assist with the investigation and interviewing of players.
Zbigniew Bzdak / baiduhai"We want to get to a place where we're competing for Big Ten championships." -- New Illinois football coach during his introduction on March 8.
Ethan Miller / Getty ImagesArtemi Panarin became the first Blackhawk since Patrick Kane to win the Calder Trophy for the NHL's rookie of the year. The 24-year-old led all rookies with 77 points and in goals (30), assists (47), game-winning goals (7) and games (80). He also had one of the better hockey nicknames, dubbed "Bread Man."
Nuccio DiNuzzo / baiduhaiSt. Joseph's Marquise Walker and Jason Tower (right) watch Peoria Manual's Cleonta Brown celebrate by picking up Da'Monte Williams after their 56-55 overtime win in the third-place game at Carver Arena in Peoria on March 19, 2016.
Erin Hooley / baiduhaiA young fan receives a stick from the Wild's Matt Dumba after Minnesota beat the Blackhawks 6-1 in the 2016 NHL Stadium Series outdoor game at TCF Bank Stadium on the University of Minnesota Campus on Feb. 21, 2016.
Antonio Perez / baiduhaiThe Brewers' Kirk Nieuwenhuis is tagged out at second by Addison Russell during the second inning at Wrigley Field on Aug. 16, 2016.
Elise Amendola / APJerry Reinsdorf, chairman of the Bulls who oversaw six titles in the 1990s, was elected to the Naismith Basketball Hall of Fame. During his enshrinement Sept. 9, Phil Jackson and Scottie Pippen stood on stage with him, while Toni Kukoc, John Paxson, Doug Collins and Gar Forman watched from the crowd. "It's overwhelming," said Reinsdorf of the praise.
Brian Cassella / baiduhaiSimone Biles eyes her landing on the balance beam during the team gymnastics final on Aug. 9, 2016, at Rio Olympic Arena in Rio de Janeiro.
Chris Sweda / baiduhaiCubs catcher Miguel Montero receives communion from Cubs chaplain Father Burke Masters in the Wrigley Field stands prior to Game 2 of the NLCS against the Dodgers on Oct. 16, 2016.
Rick Danzl / APThe University of Illinois reached a $375,000 with seven former women's basketball players to settle a lawsuit alleging racial discrimination and civil rights violations by the coaching staff. "We are very happy to see that actions have been put in place so that no other student-athlete may have to experience what we have," the players said in a statement.
Erin Hooley / baiduhai8-year-old Javion Irvy does a dance in the huddle of Evanston basketball team before a Class 4A sectional semifinal game against Notre Dame on March 8, 2016. Notre Dame beat Evanston 68-56.
Brian Cassella / baiduhaiCubs President Theo Epstein (center) wears a fake mustache in the bleachers during the seventh inning stretch with Jed Hoyer, Jason McLeod and other front office staff on Sept. 16, 2016 at Wrigley Field.
Nancy Stone / baiduhaiAfter pitching the Cubs out of a jam in the 6th with bases loaded and no outs, Travis Wood moves to left field in the 7th and saves a long hit ball into the ivy by the Mariners' Franklin Gutierrez. The Cubs won in extras at Wrigle Field on July 31, 2016.
Antonio Perez / baiduhaiCubs starting pitcher Jake Arrieta hits a foul during the fifth inning against the Brewers at Wrigley Field on Aug. 18, 2016.
Alex Brandon / AP"I didn't have enough chance to do nothing last offseason. I want more of an opportunity to do nothing, and I mean that in a positive way. When you get this downtime, to be able to do nothing well, that's my goal." -- Cubs manager on his offseason pursuit of nothingness.
Erin Hooley / baiduhaiThe Wild's Matt Dumba loses his helmet as he's taken down by the Blackhawks' Artemi Panarin during a March 20, 2016, game at the United Center.
Terrence Antonio James / baiduhai"We need to get younger and more athletic." -- Bulls general manager on the team's philosophy in the wake of the Derrick Rose trade.
Chris Sweda / baiduhaiThe Cubs clinched their first NL Central title since 2008 ... thanks to the Giants, who beat the Cardinals in a late game after the Cubs lost earlier in the day to the Brewers. A day later, Miguel Montero helped the Cubs walk-off against the Brewers, and then the party started in the celebration room. It was the 6th time the Cubs won the Central, but 2016 was the earliest date on the calendar.
Chris Sweda / baiduhaiA happy group of Cubs await Miguel Montero, who hit a walk-off home run to beat the Brewers at Wrilgye Field on Sept. 16, 2016.
Chris Sweda / baiduhaiRelief pitcher Carl Edwards runs around the outfield with a giant "W" flag after the Cubs won Game 6 of the NLCS against the Dodgers to advance to the World Series on Oct. 22, 2016.
Christian Petersen / Getty ImagesIn the third game of the season, Cub Kyle Schwarber collided with Dexter Fowler in the outfield at Chase Field. Schwarber tore his ACL and LCL in his left knee and was declared out for the season. But he returned for the World Series and started at DH against the Indians. In the Series, he had 2 RBIs and 7 hits with a slugging percentage of .971. Not too shabby.
Antonio Perez / baiduhaiCubs left fielder Chris Coghlan curls up in pain after running into center fielder Dexter Fowler and dropping a pop-up against the Brewers in the third inning on Aug. 16, 2016.
Nancy Stone / baiduhaiMatthew Brokenshire, of Elmhurst, holds up his 4-month-old daughter Mackenna in front of a the chalk wall at Wrigley Field on Nov. 6, 2016.
Terrence Antonio James / baiduhaiThe Bulls' Derrick Rose helps his son, P.J., practice his shot before the Bulls played the Heat at the United Center on March 11, 2016.
Jed Jacobsohn / Getty ImagesRashaan Salaam, the Bears' first-round pick in the 1995 draft, was found dead in a Boulder, Colo., park. He was 42. The Heisman Trophy winner rushed for 1,074 yards – then a Bears rookie record – and earned NFC Rookie of the Year honors.
Anonymous / APFormer Cubs pitcher Milt Pappas died at 76. He famously came one pitch from a perfect game on Sept. 2, 1972, against the Padres at Wrigley Field.
Jose M. Osorio / baiduhai"He gets that bug-eyed look on his face and he gets that glossy stare. Like if you watch Animal Planet, 'Shark Week,' and you see those damn sharks and those eyes go black? Yeah. When Pernell had that look (before the Vikings game), I said, 'Yeah, he's ready to roll.'" -- Bears outside linebackers coach on Pernell McPhee.
John Minchillo / Associated PressJake Arrieta throws his second no-hitter (both on the road) of his career, this one a 16-0 over the Reds in Cincinnati. He joined Ken Holtzman and Larry Corcoran as the only Cubs with two no-hitters and was the fourth reigning Cy Young winner to throw a no-no the following season. Arrieta's outing overshadowed a six-RBI game from Kris Bryant, including his third career grand slam.
Brian Cassella / baiduhaiJimmy Butler (and his hair) at Bulls media day at the Advocate Center on Sept. 26, 2016.
Chris Sweda / baiduhaiWhite Sox third baseman Todd Frazier looks over at a man dressed as Santa Claus before of a "Christmas in July" game against the Tigers at U.S. Cellular Field on July 22, 2016.
Charles Rex Arbogast / APThat Marian Hossa is good at the hockey. The Blackhawk scored his 500th-career goal during a 7-4 win over the Flyers at the United Center. He's just the 44th player in the NHL to reach that milestone; his 500th came almost 18 years after he scored his first on Dec. 9, 1998.
Erin Hooley / baiduhaiMcDonald's All-American Josh Jackson takes his turn during the dunk contest at the POWERADE Jam Fest skills event on March 28, 2016, at the Chicago Theatre.
Nancy Stone / baiduhaiJon Lester lays down a bunt in the 12th inning, bringing home Jason Heyward for a 7-6 win over the Mariners at Wrigley Field on July 31, 2016.
Zbigniew Bzdak / baiduhaiComiskey Park --> U.S. Cellular Field --> Guaranteed Rate Field (it just rolls off the tongue). The White Sox signed a 13-year naming rights deal with the Chicago-based mortgage lender, whose logo includes a giant red arrow pointing down. Twitter had a field day #BetterSoxStadiumNames (Chance the Rapper even got in on the fun).
Nuccio DiNuzzo / baiduhaiJavier Baez and Addison Russell hug alongside a hugging Kris Bryant and Anthony Rizzo after the Cubs won Game 6 of the NLCS over the Dodgers at Wrigley Field on Oct. 22, 2016.
Brian Cassella / baiduhaiThree straight gold medals for the men's basketball team, and gold No. 1 for the Bulls' Jimmy Butler. Former Bulls coach Tom Thibodeau was an assistant on the team. It also started an Instagram bromace between Butler and the Clippers' DeAndre Jordan. Upon his return from Rio, Butler took his spot with the "Three Alphas" on the Bulls, although the two other alphas – Dwyane Wade and Rajon Rondo – repeatedly have said it's Butler's team.
Nuccio DiNuzzo / baiduhai"It's not season-ending contrary to the reports you hear." -- Bears coach on Jay Cutler's right shoulder injury eight days before the team announced it was indeed season-ending.
Chris Sweda / baiduhai"It's embarrassing when you get a top-five pick. That lets you know how (crappy) you are." -- Bears outside linebacker in late November when asked about tanking for a higher draft pick.
John J. Kim / baiduhai
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The Blackhawks traded young forward Teuvo Teravainen and veteran forward Bryan Bickell to the Carolina Panthers for a 2016 second-round and 2017 third-round pick. On Nov. 11, Bickell announced he was diagnosed with multiple sclerosis; "I am hopeful I will be able to return to the ice and continue playing the game that I love."
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It has been widely reported that 2016 was the best year ever in sports, an estimation based largely on the curse-killing Cubs, the LeBron James-inspired Cavaliers, the buzzer-beating Villanova NCAA tournament champions, the Peyton Manning farewell on top, the final Olympic haul of Michael Phelps.
All true, all significant, but there is still room for the annual “Bernies,” awards that aim to show just what kind of year in sports it really was.
They Kept the Problem and Let the Solution Go to Miami Award
To the Bears for letting John Fox stay while Adam Gase made the Dolphins contenders.
Still, We’re keeping the World Series Rings Award
To Aroldis Chapman who complained of being used too much and to Miguel Montero who grumbled about being used too little.
No Matter How I Tried, I Couldn’t Defy Destiny Award
To Cubs manager Joe Maddon who made more wrong moves than a seeing-eye crab.
Come On, 2016, you Weren’t Really Trying Award
For fewer arrests of athletes (427) than last year (495).
Wait a Minute, Wait a Minute, You Ain’t Heard Nothin’ Yet Award
To Bulls and Bears fans who boo better than their teams play. And a Participation Ribbon to the White Sox fans who cheered on opening day when they learned the Cubs’ Kyle Schwarber had been injured.
Or, Thank Goodness This Isn’t the State of Washington Award
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Where a law is proposed to allow handguns at sporting events.
If You Can’t Be Drunk, Vulgar and Boorish on the Golf Course, You Ain’t Really Trying Award
To the American Ryder Cup fans who treated European golfers like fresh compost.
Dumber Still Are the Arcane Rules of Golf that Force the U.S. Open Champion to Play with a Sword Over His Head Award
To Dustin Johnson who did not know what score he had to shoot to win.
Psst, World, Chicago Has Another Baseball Team and It Got There First Award
To the 2005 White Sox and the forgotten souls on the South Side.
If the Shirt Don’t Fit, You Must Quit Award
To former White Sox pitcher Chris Sale for refusing to wear a promotional uniform.
At Least Michael Jordan Had Basketball to Fall Back on Award
To much rejected quarterback and dogged new baseballer, Tim Tebow, for hitting .194 for the Scottsdale Scorpions, compared to MJ who hit .202 for the Birmingham Barons.
Well, Neither Did Andre Agassi until He Wrote in his Autobiography that He Did Award
To Maria Sharapova whose suspension from tennis for using a banned substance was reduced because she didn’t mean it.
Going Out the Way He Came In Award
To Kobe Bryant who scored 60 points in his final game, cementing his selfishness forever.
Going Out the Way He Came In Award II
To honey-voiced Vin Scully who spent 67 years elevating baseball to lyrical joy.
Who Do You Think We Are, Oregon?, Award
To Notre Dame for keeping a 4-8 football coach.
He Might Have Leaned on His Elbow or Stood on His Head but Then No One Would have Taken the Protest Seriously Award
To 49ers quarterback Colin Kaepernick for having the courage to put his knee where his heart is.
Oh, No, 41 College Bowl Games Are Not Too Many Because ESPN Still Has Room for More Award
To the Famous Idaho Potato, Popeyes Bahamas and Buffalo Wild Wings Citrus bowls. Yummy.
It is Not True the Green Diving Pool was Ryan Lochte’s Fault but Everything Else that Went Wrong in Rio Is Award
To the Zika virus which, like most of the Russian team, missed the Olympics.
Sportsmanship is a Double Edged Razor Award
To Panthers quarterback Cam Newton who mocked opponents with victory dabs when winning and sulked like a brat after losing the Super Bowl.
Give Jason Heyward a 17-Minute Rain Delay and He’ll Give You the World Series Award
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For inspiring the Cubs to go back out there and win one for the ages.
Bernie Lincicome is a special contributor to the baiduhai.