50 Facts About Patrick Ewing

Early Life and Move to the United States

Patrick Ewing's journey to basketball greatness began far from the hardwood courts of the NBA. His early years set the stage for his remarkable career.

1. Early Life and Move to the United States: Ewing moved to the United States at age 11 and was introduced to basketball relatively late while a schoolboy in Cambridge, Massachusetts.
2. High School Basketball: Ewing quickly overcame his initial awkwardness on the court and became a hotly recruited player in high school. He led Cambridge Rindge and Latin School to three consecutive Massachusetts Division I state championships from 1979 to 1981.

College Basketball Stardom

Ewing's college years were nothing short of legendary. His time at Georgetown University cemented his status as a basketball prodigy.

3. College Basketball Star: Ewing gained prominence during his time at Georgetown University, leading the team to three NCAA championship appearances and winning one title in 1984. He was named an All-American three times and was voted the Most Outstanding Player of the 1984 Division I basketball tournament.
4. College Achievements: Ewing helped Georgetown reach the final game of the NCAA Tournament three out of four years, win three Big East tournament titles, and earn four Big East Defensive Player of the Year awards.
5. College Fashion Trend: Ewing developed a habit of wearing a short-sleeved T-shirt underneath his jersey, which started a fashion trend among young athletes that lasts to this day.

NBA Draft and Early Career

Ewing's entry into the NBA was highly anticipated. His early career with the New York Knicks was marked by significant achievements and challenges.

6. NBA Draft: Ewing was drafted with the first overall selection of the 1985 NBA draft by the New York Knicks, who had earlier that year won the first NBA draft lottery ever held.
7. Franchise-Saving Player: Ewing was touted as a “franchise-saving” player as soon as he joined the Knicks, and the young player quickly became the focus of intense media pressure.
8. NBA Rookie of the Year: Although injuries marred his first year in the league, Ewing was voted NBA Rookie of the Year and named to the NBA All-Rookie First Team after averaging 20 points, 9 rebounds, and 2 blocks per game.

Dominance in the NBA

Ewing's career with the Knicks was marked by numerous accolades and records. His impact on the court was undeniable.

9. NBA All-Star Appearances: Ewing was selected as an NBA All-Star 11 times, solidifying his status as one of the league’s top players.
10. Knicks Franchise Records: Ewing set a number of Knicks franchise records, including points scored, rebounds, and blocked shots.
11. Signature Move: Ewing was known for his signature move, the “fadeaway,” which was nearly impossible to defend against.
12. Number 33 Retired: Ewing’s number 33 jersey was retired by the Knicks in 2003, forever solidifying his place in team history.
13. All-NBA Teams: Ewing was named to seven All-NBA teams, including one All-NBA First Team and six All-NBA Second Teams.
14. All-Defensive Teams: He was named to the NBA All-Defensive Second Team three times, showcasing his defensive prowess throughout his career.

Olympic Success

Ewing's talents extended beyond the NBA. His contributions to the U.S. Olympic basketball teams were significant.

15. Olympic Gold Medals: Ewing won two Olympic gold medals as a member of the United States men’s basketball team, including the dominant 1992 “Dream Team” and the 1984 team.
16. Dream Team Member: Ewing was a member of the original Dream Team at the 1992 Olympic Games, which included other NBA superstars like Michael Jordan and Magic Johnson.
17. U.S. Olympic Hall of Fame: Ewing was inducted into the U.S. Olympic Hall of Fame as a member of the “Dream Team” in 2009.

Coaching Career

After retiring as a player, Ewing transitioned into coaching, where he continued to make an impact on the game.

18. NBA Coaching Stints: After retiring as a player in 2002, Ewing embarked on a 14-year career as an NBA assistant coach, serving on staffs with the Washington Wizards, Orlando Magic, Charlotte Hornets, and Houston Rockets.
19. Jeff Van Gundy’s Staff: In Houston, Ewing was part of ex-Knicks coach Jeff Van Gundy’s staff, where he worked alongside Tom Thibodeau, who later became a member of Ewing’s later Knicks teams.
20. Tom Thibodeau’s Connection: The connection between Ewing and Thibodeau dates back to their time together in Houston, where they both contributed to the team’s success.

Georgetown University

Ewing returned to his alma mater, Georgetown University, to take on a new challenge as head coach.

21. Georgetown Head Coach: In 2017, Ewing was named the men’s head basketball coach at Georgetown University, a position he held until his departure in 2023.
22. Georgetown’s Big East Tournament Title: Under Ewing’s leadership, Georgetown won a surprise Big East tournament title at Madison Square Garden in 2021.
23. Challenges as a Coach: Despite his success as a player, Ewing faced challenges as a coach, particularly in his final two seasons at Georgetown, which led to his eventual firing in 2023.

Return to the Knicks

Ewing's relationship with the Knicks continued even after his playing days were over.

24. Return to the Knicks: In 2024, Ewing rejoined the New York Knicks as a basketball ambassador to assist both basketball and business operations, working directly with coach Tom Thibodeau and the team’s front office.
25. Current Role with the Knicks: Ewing’s return to the Knicks as a basketball ambassador marks a new chapter in his career, one that combines his love for the team with his extensive experience in both playing and coaching.
26. Fan Engagement: During the Knicks’ run to the Eastern Conference semifinals last season, Ewing and other notable former Knicks, including John Starks, sat courtside and drew standing ovations from sold-out Madison Square Garden crowds.

Legacy and Impact

Patrick Ewing's legacy extends beyond his playing and coaching career. His influence on the game and community is profound.

27. Impact on the Game: Beyond his playing and coaching career, Ewing’s impact continues through charity work and inspiring the next generation of basketball players and community leaders.
28. Patrick Ewing Foundation: Ewing established the Patrick Ewing Foundation, which focuses on providing education and healthcare opportunities to underprivileged children.
29. College Legacy: Ewing’s four-year college career is cited as one of the most successful college runs of all time, with numerous accolades and achievements that set him apart.
30. First Freshman to Lead a Major College Team: Ewing was one of the first freshmen to not only start for but lead a major college basketball team, something unheard of back in his era.
31. Dominant Center: Ewing enjoyed a successful career as a dominant center, earning him a place among the 50 Greatest Players in NBA History in 1996 and the 75 Greatest Players in 2021.
32. Georgetown’s NCAA Tournament Appearances: Under Ewing’s leadership, Georgetown reached the NCAA Tournament multiple times, maintaining the team’s competitive edge in college basketball.
33. Big East Tournament Titles: Ewing’s teams at Georgetown won multiple Big East tournament titles, showcasing their dominance in conference play.
34. NBA Coaching Legacy: Ewing’s coaching career in the NBA spanned over a decade, during which he contributed to the success of several teams, including the Washington Wizards and Orlando Magic.
35. Tom Thibodeau’s Influence: The influence of Tom Thibodeau on Ewing’s coaching career is significant, as they worked together in Houston and later in New York, fostering a strong working relationship.

Fashion and Community Influence

Ewing's influence extended beyond the court, impacting fashion and community initiatives.

36. Fashion Influence: Ewing’s fashion sense extended beyond his playing days, influencing a trend among young athletes with his signature short-sleeved T-shirt underneath his jersey.
37. Community Impact: Beyond his professional achievements, Ewing has dedicated himself to giving back through various charitable initiatives and community programs.
38. Fan Engagement and Support: The fanbase of the New York Knicks is highly engaged, particularly during the team’s run to the Eastern Conference semifinals last season, where Ewing and other notable former players drew standing ovations from sold-out crowds.

Honors and Recognition

Ewing's contributions to basketball have been recognized through numerous awards and honors.

39. Hall of Fame Induction: Ewing was inducted into the Naismith Memorial Basketball Hall of Fame in 2008 for his individual career and in 2010 as a member of the 1992 Olympic team.
40. NBA All-Star Game Appearances: Ewing’s 11 NBA All-Star appearances are a testament to his consistent performance throughout his career, earning him a place among the league’s elite.
41. Olympic Medal Wins: Ewing’s two Olympic gold medals are a reflection of his exceptional skill and teamwork, both on and off the court.
42. Franchise Loyalty: Ewing’s loyalty to the New York Knicks is evident, having spent 15 seasons with the team and becoming one of its most beloved players.
43. Georgetown Success: Under Ewing’s leadership, Georgetown reached the Big East tournament title in 2021, a surprise achievement that highlighted his coaching prowess.
44. College Coaching Challenges: Despite his success as a player, Ewing faced challenges as a coach, particularly in his final two seasons at Georgetown, which led to his eventual firing in 2023.

Continuing Influence

Patrick Ewing's legacy continues to inspire and influence the world of basketball and beyond.

45. Current Role with the Knicks: Ewing’s current role as a basketball ambassador for the Knicks combines his extensive experience in both playing and coaching, allowing him to contribute to the team’s success in a new capacity.
46. Fan Engagement and Support: The fanbase of the New York Knicks is highly engaged, particularly during the team’s run to the Eastern Conference semifinals last season, where Ewing and other notable former players drew standing ovations from sold-out crowds.
47. Legacy in Basketball: Patrick Ewing’s legacy in basketball is multifaceted, encompassing his achievements as a player, coach, and ambassador. His impact on the sport continues to inspire future generations of athletes and coaches alike.
48. Georgetown’s NCAA Tournament Appearances: Under Ewing’s leadership, Georgetown reached the NCAA Tournament multiple times, maintaining the team’s competitive edge in college basketball.
49. Big East Tournament Titles: Ewing’s teams at Georgetown won multiple Big East tournament titles, showcasing their dominance in conference play.
50. NBA Coaching Legacy: Ewing’s coaching career in the NBA spanned over a decade, during which he contributed to the success of several teams, including the Washington Wizards and Orlando Magic.

Patrick Ewing's Lasting Legacy

Patrick Ewing's journey from Jamaica to NBA stardom is nothing short of inspiring. His dominance at Georgetown, followed by a stellar career with the New York Knicks, cemented his place among basketball's greats. Ewing's 11 NBA All-Star appearances, two Olympic gold medals, and induction into the Basketball Hall of Fame highlight his incredible achievements. Beyond the court, his role as a coach and now as a basketball ambassador for the Knicks shows his dedication to the sport. Ewing's influence extends to fashion trends, community programs, and inspiring future generations. His legacy is a testament to hard work, dedication, and exceptional talent. As he continues to contribute to basketball, Patrick Ewing's impact remains indelible, inspiring countless athletes and fans alike.