NBA's Greatest Players in History: Patrick Ewing

• 11-time NBA All-Star and 7-time All-NBA selection
• Led the New York Knicks to two NBA Finals appearances
• Named to the NBA's 50th and 75th Anniversary Teams

Patrick Ewing was a towering centre who revolutionised the game with his offensive prowess and defensive intimidation, becoming the face of New York basketball throughout the 1990s.

Overview

Patrick Ewing arrived in the NBA as the first overall pick in the 1985 draft, carrying the hopes of a struggling New York Knicks franchise. Over the next 15 years, he would transform the team into a perennial playoff contender and establish himself as one of the most dominant big men of his era. Standing at 7 feet tall, Ewing possessed a rare combination of size, athleticism, and skill that made him a force on both ends of the court.

Career snapshot

Ewing's impact on the Knicks was immediate. He won Rookie of the Year honours in 1986, averaging 20 points and 9 rebounds per game. As his career progressed, Ewing's game continued to evolve. He developed a reliable mid-range jump shot to complement his powerful inside game, making him nearly unstoppable on offence. Defensively, he was a shot-blocking menace who altered countless attempts at the rim.

Playing style

Ewing's playing style was characterised by his intensity and work ethic. He was a relentless competitor who gave his all every time he stepped on the court. Offensively, he had a diverse arsenal of moves in the post, including a deadly turnaround jumper and a soft touch around the basket. His ability to step out and hit mid-range jumpers made him incredibly difficult to guard, as defenders had to respect his shooting ability while also contending with his strength inside.

Defensively, Ewing was a game-changer. His presence in the paint deterred opponents from driving to the basket, and his shot-blocking ability allowed his teammates to play more aggressively on the perimeter. He was also an excellent rebounder, using his size and positioning to secure possessions for his team.

Why Patrick Ewing is on our list

Patrick Ewing earns his place among the most dominant players in NBA history for several reasons:

1. Consistency: Throughout his career, Ewing was a model of consistency, averaging over 20 points and 9 rebounds per game for 13 consecutive seasons.
2. Impact on both ends: Few players in NBA history have been as impactful on both offence and defence as Ewing. He could take over a game with his scoring and simultaneously shut down the opposition's attack.
3. Leadership: Ewing was the heart and soul of the Knicks for over a decade, leading the team through some of its most successful years in franchise history.
4. Longevity: Despite the physical demands of his position, Ewing remained an elite player well into his 30s, a testament to his conditioning and skill.
5. Cultural impact: As the face of basketball in New York City, Ewing transcended the sport and became a cultural icon.

Five Fast Facts

1. Ewing was the first player selected in the inaugural NBA Draft Lottery in 1985
2. He led the Knicks to 13 consecutive playoff appearances from 1988 to 2000
3. Ewing scored 24,815 points in his career, ranking him 24th on the NBA's all-time scoring list
4. He was a member of the original 'Dream Team' that won gold at the 1992 Olympics
5. Ewing's jersey number 33 was retired by the New York Knicks in 2003

Career Highlights Timeline

1985: Selected first overall in the NBA Draft by the New York Knicks

1986: Named NBA Rookie of the Year

1990: Led the Knicks to their first 50-win season since 1972-73

1994: Guided the Knicks to the NBA Finals, falling to the Houston Rockets in seven games

1999: Helped the Knicks reach the NBA Finals as the first 8th seed in NBA history

2000: Traded to the Seattle SuperSonics, ending his 15-year tenure with the Knicks

2003: Retired from the NBA after a brief stint with the Orlando Magic

Patrick Ewing's legacy as one of the most dominant players in NBA history is secure. His combination of skill, power, and tenacity made him a nightmare for opponents and a hero to Knicks fans. While he never won an NBA championship, Ewing's impact on the game and his consistent excellence over a long career ensure his place among the all-time greats of basketball.

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