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Geoff Huston
The New York Knicks drafted Brooklyn native Geoff Huston 50th overall in the 1979 draft. The 6-2 guard, who played his college ball for Texas Tech University, was one of five rookies to make the roster that season, along with Bill Cartwright, Sly Williams, Hollis Copeland, and Larry Demic.

After his single season in New York, where he played in 71 games averaging 3 PPG, the Knicks lost Huston in the expansion draft to the original Dallas Mavericks. He would also go on to play for Cleveland (for five years), Golden State, and the Clippers.

Huston is now Director of the St. Mary's Recreation Center – a bustling neighborhood hub serving the Mott Haven section of the South Bronx. St. Mary's has everything from After-school programs to a heated indoor pool, computers, basketball tournaments and trips for seniors, not to mention GED programs for adults and pre-GED programs for kids.

The Knicks caught up with Mr. Huston at his office in the Bronx to discuss his days in the NBA, New York and his thoughts on Black History Month.

Geoff Huston
MSG Photos
What differences do you see in the NBA today versus when you played?
“ Players are a lot bigger and more athletic than back then."

What was your favorite memory from your playing days in the NBA?
“It has to be the competition and relationships I developed over the years."

What do you remember most about New York?
“My fondest memory has to be when the Knicks drafted me. I am born and raised in New York so it was a dream come true being drafted by my hometown team.”

Was it harder playing for or against the Knicks?
“Well I dreamed of playing for Knicks growing up, so it was definitely harder playing against them. I was always torn playing against my hometown team."

Who was the hardest player you ever had to defend? Defended you?
“Magic Johnson was the hardest player for me to defend, and Joe Dumars was the toughest defending me."

What does Black History Month mean to you?
“Black History Month gives us the opportunity to celebrate those that came before us and honors the great things they did to pave the way for us."

Who are some of your heroes?
“My heroes were Dr. Martin Luther King, Earl Monroe, and Julius “Dr. J” Erving."

What advice would you give to today’s youth?
“My advice would be to take advantage of all the educational opportunities available to you because an education is the key to a bright future."

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