Willie Mays’ demise has sent ripples of sadness to the NFL as well. Emotions run deep as Robert Griffin III pays tribute to the baseball icon. The San Francisco Giants’ beloved icon and Hall of Famer Mays passed away peacefully on June 19 afternoon at 93.

The MLB community is devastated by the loss of one of the most dynamic players in the sport’s history, while the football and basketball worlds are also mourning the loss of this legendary figure. Did you know that Mays played football for a short time?

Remembering the unforgettable career of Willie Mays

His son, Michael Mays, confirmed the news of his passing. Since then, the world of sports has been grappling with the loss. Robert Griffin III joins in mourning as Mays’ legacy lives on beyond the outfield, “Prayers up for the family, friends and loved ones of the Legendary Willie Mays who passed away today. Rest in Peace to the Say Hey Kid. You will never be forgotten.”

An interesting anecdote explains why Mays became known as “Say Hey Kid.” Always running high in spirit, as the New York Journal American’s Barney Kremenko recounted, “[Mays] would blurt, ‘Say who,’ ‘Say what,’ ‘Say where,’ ‘Say hey.’” This is where the Giants’ legend derived his moniker from. Even though he is only known for his impact on baseball and MLB, he did suffer a blow while pursuing his ambitions. His high school had no baseball team, so he focused his interest on basketball and football. But by the time Mays finished high school, it became clear that baseball would be his career.

Walking through May’s path to success

Mays began his professional career at 16, playing with the Birmingham Black Barons. His initial days had been tough since he went hitless in his first 12 times at bat. However, it did not take the baseball superstar much time to soar to success, as he propelled the Giants to win the National League pennant in 1951. The center fielder began his professional career in 1948 and was baseball’s oldest living Hall of Famer.

Mays’ name is associated with one of baseball’s most celebrated defensive feats when he made an over-the-shoulder catch of a long drive in the 1954 World Series. Considering his accolades, the Giants icon amassed two MVP awards and bore the legacy of finishing in the top 10 runner-ups for MVP 10 other times. This made Mays one of the true legends in the history of America’s so-called “National Pastime.”

Being away from professional sports for over 50 years did not block Mays from soaring to success since his records have been timeless. The MLB added 10 more hits to his career record earlier this month. The dreams of many were about to come true as Mays was all set for a public appearance. But not anymore, as he passed away two days before a game between the Giants and St. Louis Cardinals.