THIS DAY IN SPORTS HISTORY: 2/20

1887 – The International Association, the first minor league baseball association, is organized in Pittsburgh.

1951 – After a point-shaving scandal involving basketball, Long Island University drops all intercollegiate sports. The basketball team returns to play in 1957.

1971 – Boston’s Phil Esposito becomes the first player in NHL history to score his 50^th goal of the season in February.

1974 – “Mr. Hockey” Gordie Howe comes out of retirement to sign a $1 million contract with the Houston Aeros of the WHA. His sons Mark and Marty are on the team.

1982 – The New York Islanders set an NHL record by winning their 15^th straight game.

1993 – The Florida Marlins open their first ever spring training.

2011 – Kobe Bryant ties an NBA record by winning the All-Star Game MVP award for the fourth time.