Patrick Ewing, an NBA legend, turns 61
Today, Patrick Ewing, one of the best centers in NBA history, turned 61. Ewing, who was born in Kingston, Jamaica, immigrated to the US at the age of 11, where he soon rose to prominence as a brilliant basketball player at Cambridge Rindge and Latin School. Later, he played basketball at Georgetown University, where he helped the Hoyas win the 1984 NCAA title.
The New York Knicks selected Ewing with the first overall choice in the 1985 NBA Draft. He played with the Knicks for 15 seasons, where he rose to become one of the most beloved players in team history. Ewing was chosen for the All-NBA team ten times, an NBA All-Star eleven times, and the All-NBA Defensive Team twice. In 1994 and 1999, he also took the Knicks to the NBA Finals.
One of the most powerful centers of his time, Patrick Ewing contributed to the evolution of the game with his skills. He was a skilled passer and rebounder in addition to being a strong post scorer.
Ewing played for the Seattle SuperSonics and Orlando Magic after his tenure with the Knicks. In 2002, he left the NBA for good. In addition to his success on the court, Ewing has also had success as a coach. From 2008 to 2012, he led the Orlando Magic as their head coach. From 2017 to 2021, he led Georgetown University.
As a successful coach, Ewing has guided the Hoyas to several NCAA Tournament berths. He is the first player in NBA history to have both the Knicks and Georgetown retire his jersey.
Patrick Ewing’s career highlights include the following:
11-time All-Star NBA
A ten-time NBA All-Star
NBA Defensive Team selected twice
in 1994 and 1999, led the Knicks to the NBA Finals
1986 NBA Rookie of the Year
1986 NBA All-Rookie First Team
Olympic champion twice (1984, 1992)
(2008) Inductee into the Naismith Memorial Basketball Hall of Fame
Ewing is the lone all-time top scorer in Georgetown University men’s basketball history and one of the most accomplished centers in NBA history. In addition to his success on the court, Ewing is a fantastic leader and mentor.
