New York can be one of the toughest sports markets for players. Audiences will let them know without hesitation when they are not playing well. But they will also support them hard when they are playing well and giving effort.
Charles Oakley was beloved when he played for the Knicks because of his effort,
rebounding ability and toughness on the court. He made his mark but so did another big man that played in Madison Square Garden, Patrick Ewing.
Ewing was drafted number one overall in the 1985 NBA Draft by the New York Knicks. He was known more for being a defensive guy, but he began to develop more offense with time in the league, especially with that jump shot. And as time went on, his shot would get better and the points would pile up. And on Jan. 17, 1994, Ewing became the first New York NBA player to reach the 15,000 point mark in his career with 34 points in a 106-94 win over Minnesota.
