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Knicks and MSG Network Announce Winners of 2005 Dave DeBusschere Award

Second Annual Award to Be Presented To Top High School Student-Athletes in New York
Apr 22 2005 3:20PM
NEW YORK, Apr. 18- The New York Knickerbockers and MSG Network today announced that Geoff McDermott, New Rochelle HS and Carrem Gay, Christ The King HS are winners of the 2nd annual Dave DeBusschere Award, given to the top male and female athlete in the New York area.

The winners were determined by criteria representing the qualities of the late Knick great and NBA Hall of Famer. Outstanding overall excellence in athletics (not limited to basketball), academics and community service. DeBusschere, an NBA Hall-of-Famer and one of the 50 Greatest Players in NBA history, passed away suddenly on May 14, 2003. The winners will be recognized on Wednesday, April 20th during the Knicks final home game vs. the Washington Wizards.

“Dave was an outstanding athlete, a great leader and a tenacious competitor, and we are proud to be able to extend his legacy to some of our future stars through this award,” said Steve Mills, President and COO, Sports Team Operations, Madison Square Garden. “It is a fitting, on-going tribute to a true New York legend.”

"I know Dave would be honored that his name is being used to recognize both the on and off-court accomplishments of these great student-athletes. Our family sends our congratulations and wishes them the best for the future," said Gerri DeBusschere, widow of Dave DeBusschere.

McDermott, a standout football and basketball star from New Rochelle High School, is headed to Providence College in the fall after recently accepting a full-scholarship to join the Friars basketball program. On the hardwood, McDermott averaged 19.8 PPG 11.5 rebounds and 7.0 assists per game for New Rochelle and helped lead his squad to an outstanding 26-2 overall record during the 2004-05 season. In addition to his success on the basketball court, McDermott, who played the quarterback position, helped lead the New Rochelle football team to two consecutive Class AA state football title games and earned All-State honors in his final season with the Huguenots.

Duke-bound Gay was named Miss New York State Basketball this season after helping lead the Lady Blazers to a New York State Federation Basketball Championship and #1 National Ranking by USA Today. Gay averaged 18.1 PPG, 12.4 rebounds, 5.3 blocks and 4.7 assists per game for Christ the King and was also named a McDonald’s All-American for her efforts on the court. In the classroom, Gay has maintained a 96% GPA and is a member of the National Honor Society and the Principal’s Honor List.

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