Love Connection: Why Do Celebrities and Athletes Hook Up?

by Eric Anderson

Remember back in high school when all the jocks used to get the cheerleaders? Well, life hasn't changed much except now the sports guys are snatching up all the Hollywood stars. Of course, it's not exactly a new trend. Dating back to the days of Marilyn Monroe and Joe DiMaggio, Hollywood starlets have long been attracted to athletes. Check out just a few of the star-celeb couples heating up Hollywood:

Eva Longoria & Tony Parker - The "Desperate" diva has become a fixture in the stands for Tony's games with the San Antonio Spurs. The two met in the locker room after a Spurs game in 2004. They announced their engagement on Ryan Seacrest 's KIIS FM radio show in November 2006. The two will reportedly tie the knot on July 7, 2007.

Reggie Bush & Kim Kardashian - Affectionately dubbed "Bush & Tush" by the online blogosphere, the young NFL stud and the perennial party gal have been photographed all over town and are rumored to be dating. While Bush makes headlines on the field for the New Orleans Saints, Kardashian has been in the news for her sex tape controversy with Brandy's brother Ray J.

David & Victoria Beckham - Perhaps the pinnacle of the current star-athlete relationship, Posh and Becks began dating in 1997 and were married in 1999. The soccer superstar and former Spice Girl quickly became Britain's hot couple, and arguably still are despite their recent move across the pond.

Carrie Underwood & Tony Romo - Fitting that the "Idol"-turned-country cutie has fallen for the QB of the Dallas Cowboys. Come on, country and Cowboys - what could be better? Romo was thrust into the sports spotlight mid-season when he took over the starting job in Big D. After a rumored romance with Jessica Simpson, it was soon Carrie who was on the sidelines of Tony's games. Of course, the list goes on and on.