Talent is only one element in the calculus of what makes an athlete "influential." Endorsements, media attention, and off-the-field image also play big
roles. In short, says E-Poll CEO Gerry Philpott, "it means that people feel he's making an impact."
Rounding out the Top 10 are the Cleveland Cavalier LeBron James, University of Florida
quarterback Tim Tebow, snowboarder Shaun White, the Cavalier's Shaquille O'Neal, Indianapolis Colt Peyton Manning, the Boston Celtic's Kevin Garnett, the Los Angeles Laker's Kobe Bryant, speed skater
Apolo Anton Ohno, and the Miami Heat's Dwayne Wade. Tiger Woods is notably absent.
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