Sports History

Born September 2, 1941, in Washington, D.C., was Naismith Memorial Basketball Hall of Fame legendary center and Coach John Thompson. This legend may be best known as the great runs his Georgetown Hoyas Basketball program had in the 1980s and 90s. His Hoyas team with Sleepy Flloyd and Patrick Ewing won the NCAA Championship in 1984. He later became a broadcaster. As a player Thompson was part of the NBA Championship winning Boston Celtics of 1965, 66.

Patrick Ewing, a name synonymous with power, grace, and Georgetown Hoyas basketball, carved a remarkable career that spanned 17 seasons (1985-2001). With his imposing presence (7'0", 240 lbs) and a well-rounded skillset, he established himself as one of the most dominant college players and a respected NBA force.

Ewing's collegiate career is nothing short of legendary. Leading the Georgetown Hoyas under the legendary coach John Thompson, he became the centerpiece of their "Hoya Havoc" defense and their potent offense. He was a three-time NCAA Player of the Year finalist, leading the Hoyas to three consecutive Final Four appearances (1984-1986) and a national championship title in 1984. His iconic rivalry with Michael Jordan during their college years further cemented his place in basketball history.

Drafted by the New York Knicks in 1985, Ewing embarked on a successful NBA career. Although he never reached the NBA Finals, he became a cornerstone of the Knicks, amassing numerous accolades, including 11 All-Star selections, All-NBA First Team honors, and the 1993 NBA Rookie of the Year award. His signature turnaround jump shot, defensive prowess, and leadership qualities made him a fan favorite at Madison Square Garden.

Anyone that watched basketball in the 1980s and 90s was in awe when they saw Patrick Ewing play the game. He was a star for the Georgetown Hoyas in college and then cemented his NBA legacy with the New York Knicks.

Alonzo Mourning was a man not to be denied in the paint of the hardwoods, a dominant center whose career was defined by power, passion, and remarkable resilience. Spanning 16 seasons (1992-2008), his journey took him from collegiate stardom to NBA glory, with challenges and triumphs intertwining to create a truly inspiring legacy.

Image credit Keith Allison

Mourning's dominance began at Georgetown University, where he led the Hoyas to back-to-back NCAA championships in 1989 and 1990, earning the Final Four Most Outstanding Player award both times. He was drafted second overall by the Charlotte Hornets in 1992. He quickly established himself as a defensive force, winning Defensive Rookie of the Year and earning All-Defensive First Team honors.

In 1995, he was traded to the Miami Heat, marking the beginning of his most iconic chapter. He formed a formidable duo alongside Tim Hardaway, leading the Heat to their first-ever playoff appearance in 1997. Injuries, however, threatened to derail his career. In 2000, he was diagnosed with a potentially fatal kidney disease, forcing him to retire abruptly.

However, Mourning's story wasn't over. After receiving a kidney transplant from his cousin in 2001, he staged a miraculous comeback, returning to the Heat in 2003. His emotional return brought joy to Miami and redefined the meaning of perseverance.

In 2006, the "Zo" finally got his ring. Leading a young Heat team with Shaquille O'Neal and Dwyane Wade, he defeated the Dallas Mavericks in the NBA Finals, fulfilling a lifelong dream and silencing doubters who questioned his return.

Beyond his championship and numerous individual accolades (2 Defensive Player of the Year awards and 7 All-Star selections), Mourning's impact goes beyond the court. He symbolized hope for transplant patients, founding the Alonzo Mourning Charities to raise awareness and support. His leadership also extended beyond the Heat, as he served as president of the National Basketball Players Association, advocating for player rights and social justice issues.