Patrick Ewing was one of the most beloved figures in New York sports history. He spent 15 seasons with the Knicks, leading them to two NBA Finals appearances. Although he was never able to win a championship, Ewing remains a beloved figure in the city. He is considered by many to be the Knicks' uncrowned king.
Ewing was born in Kingston, Jamaica, in 1962. He moved to the United States when he was 12 years old, and he attended Georgetown University, where he became a star player. Ewing was drafted by the Knicks with the first overall pick in the 1985 NBA draft, and he quickly became one of the most dominant centers in the league. He averaged 24.5 points and 10.4 rebounds per game in his first season with the Knicks, and he was named to the All-NBA First Team.
Ewing's Early Years
Ewing grew up in a poor neighborhood in Kingston, Jamaica. His father was a fisherman, and his mother was a homemaker. Ewing began playing basketball at a young age. He quickly showed his potential and led his high school team to the Jamaican national championship.
After high school, Ewing moved to the United States to attend Georgetown University. He quickly became one of the best players in college basketball, and he led the Hoyas to the NCAA championship game in 1984.
Ewing's NBA Career
Ewing was drafted by the Knicks with the first overall pick in the 1985 NBA draft. He quickly became one of the best centers in the league, and he led the Knicks to the playoffs every year for the next 15 seasons. Ewing was named to the All-NBA First Team 10 times, and he was a 10-time All-Star.
Ewing's best season came in 1990-91, when he averaged 28.6 points and 10.1 rebounds per game. He was also named the NBA's Most Valuable Player that season.
Ewing led the Knicks to the NBA Finals in 1994 and 1999, but they were unable to win the championship. However, Ewing's impact on the Knicks and their fans was profound. He was a fierce competitor who never gave up, and he inspired a generation of Knicks fans.
Ewing's Legacy
Ewing retired from the NBA in 2002. He is now the head coach of the Georgetown University men's basketball team. Ewing's legacy is secure as one of the greatest players in Knicks history.