Minneapolis, the largest city in Minnesota, has a rich history intertwined with professional sports, particularly from the mid-20th century onwards. The city's journey into the realm of professional sports began in earnest around 1956, a period that marked the burgeoning of its sports culture and infrastructure.
The Minneapolis Lakers were the city's first major professional sports team, established in 1947. The Lakers played in the National Basketball Association (NBA) and quickly became a dominant force in the league. They won several championships during their time in Minneapolis, with their success largely attributed to the presence of star players like George Mikan. The team played its home games at the Minneapolis Auditorium, a venue that became synonymous with basketball excellence during this era. However, in 1960, the Lakers relocated to Los Angeles, leaving a void in the city's professional basketball scene.
In the realm of baseball, the Minneapolis Millers were a minor league team that played in the American Association. The Millers were an integral part of the city's sports landscape, playing their games at Nicollet Park until 1955 and then moving to Metropolitan Stadium in Bloomington. The Millers served as a stepping stone for many players who went on to have successful careers in Major League Baseball. The team's presence helped cultivate a strong baseball culture in Minneapolis, which eventually paved the way for the arrival of the Minnesota Twins in 1961.
Metropolitan Stadium, which opened in 1956, was a significant development for Minneapolis sports. Located in the suburb of Bloomington, it was initially built to host the Millers and later became the home of the Minnesota Twins and the Minnesota Vikings. The stadium was a multi-purpose venue that played a crucial role in attracting major league sports to the region. It was here that the Twins, who relocated from Washington D.C., began their journey in Major League Baseball, bringing top-tier baseball to the Twin Cities.
Football also found its place in Minneapolis with the establishment of the Minnesota Vikings in 1961. The Vikings joined the National Football League (NFL) as an expansion team and quickly garnered a dedicated fan base. Metropolitan Stadium served as their home field until 1981, when they moved to the Hubert H. Humphrey Metrodome. The Vikings' arrival marked the beginning of a new era for professional sports in Minneapolis, as the team became an integral part of the city's sports identity.
The Metrodome, which opened in 1982, was another significant venue in Minneapolis's sports history. It was a domed stadium that hosted both the Twins and the Vikings, as well as the University of Minnesota's football team. The Metrodome was known for its unique air-supported roof and was the site of numerous memorable sports moments, including the Twins' World Series victories in 1987 and 1991. The stadium remained a central hub for Minneapolis sports until its closure in 2013.
In addition to these major sports, Minneapolis has also been home to professional hockey. The Minnesota North Stars were established in 1967 as part of the National Hockey League's expansion. They played their home games at the Met Center in Bloomington, which was located near Metropolitan Stadium. The North Stars brought professional hockey to the region and remained in Minnesota until 1993, when the team relocated to Dallas.
Throughout its history, Minneapolis has been a city that embraced professional sports, with various teams and venues playing a vital role in shaping its sports culture.
🏙️