Vinny Del Negro
Yonkers, NY, with a population of 208,121, has surprisingly produced numerous NBA stars, showcasing its rich basketball culture.
Despite being smaller compared to major cities, Yonkers has a strong tradition in basketball, driven by passionate local support and excellent youth programs. The sport’s popularity in the region is evident through its well-attended high school games and competitive youth leagues.
Bernard Toone
Bernard Toone, a standout from Yonkers, left a lasting mark in basketball despite his brief NBA stint. Playing for the Philadelphia 76ers in the 1979-80 season, Toone appeared in 23 games. His path to the NBA was paved by a stellar college career at Marquette University, where he was part of the 1977 NCAA championship team.
During his senior year, Toone averaged 18.3 points per game, showcasing his scoring prowess. His time in the NBA may have been short, but he continued his basketball career in European leagues, where he further honed his skills and demonstrated his talent on an international stage.
Jim Bostic
Jim Bostic, from Yonkers, had a brief but impactful NBA career. After excelling at New Mexico State, averaging 13.5 points and 8.4 rebounds, he joined the Kansas City Kings in 1977.
His NBA career was short, but he left a mark with his athleticism and skill at both forward and center. Bostic later played in Italy, where he continued to impress with his basketball talent..
Mike Morrison
Mike Morrison, another Yonkers native, played in the NBA during the early 1990s. Drafted by the Phoenix Suns, Morrison’s career included stints with the Suns and Washington Bullets.
Known for his defensive skills, Morrison provided solid minutes off the bench, averaging 3.1 points and 1.4 rebounds per game in his rookie season.
Vinny Del Negro
Vinny Del Negro transitioned to coaching after retiring, leading the Chicago Bulls and Los Angeles Clippers. He spent part of his youth in Yonkers and went on to have a solid 12-season NBA career.
He played for the San Antonio Spurs and Milwaukee Bucks, averaging 9.1 points, 2.3 rebounds, and 3.2 assists per game.
His career sparked many fans in Yonkers to take up basketball and engage with the sport at different levels. Fans interested in sports betting can start with a welcome bonus by using the BetMGM bonus code.
Ben Gordon
Raised in Yonkers, Ben Gordon became one of the NBA’s top scorers. Starting with the Chicago Bulls, he won the Sixth Man of the Year award as a rookie.
Over 11 years, he averaged 14.9 points per game. Gordon was particularly noted for his clutch performances and three-point shooting, with his best season in 2006-07, where he scored 21.4 points per game.
Roger Brown
Roger Brown, born in Yonkers, is best known for his impact in the ABA with the Indiana Pacers. A Hall of Famer, Brown’s career was marked by his scoring ability and leadership on the court.
He averaged 17.4 points per game over his career and was instrumental in leading the Pacers to three ABA championships.
Brown’s legacy extends beyond his statistics. His influence on the game and contributions to his team’s success cemented his place in basketball history.
Charlie Criss
Charlie Criss, standing at just 5’8″, defied the odds to carve out a successful NBA career. Born in Yonkers, Criss played for the Atlanta Hawks, where he became known for his quickness and scoring ability.
In the 1977-78 season, he averaged 11 points and 4 assists per game, proving that height is not a barrier to success in the NBA.
Taj Gibson
Taj Gibson made a significant impact in the NBA as a reliable power forward and center. Gibson has been a consistent presence in the league since being drafted by the Chicago Bulls in 2009.
Over his career, he has averaged 8.8 points and 6.1 rebounds per game. Gibson’s tenacity and ability to guard multiple positions have made him a valuable asset for teams like the Bulls, Minnesota Timberwolves, and New York Knicks
Mark Jackson
Mark Jackson, a Yonkers native, has had a distinguished career in the NBA both as a player and a coach. Jackson played 17 seasons in the NBA.
He ranks fourth all-time in assists with 10,334. Jackson’s best season came with the New York Knicks in 1988-89, where he averaged 16.9 points and 8.6 assists per game, earning him an All-Star selection.
After retiring as a player, Jackson transitioned to coaching, where he notably led the Golden State Warriors from 2011 to 2014.
Conclusion
Yonkers’ deep love for basketball has created a vibrant culture that continuously nurtures talent. From neighborhood courts to high school gyms, the passion for the game is palpable. This environment has consistently produced NBA players who have made significant contributions to the sport. As long as this culture of playing and supporting basketball thrives, Yonkers will keep generating talented athletes ready to shine on the biggest stages.
