by Conrad Brunner
New York, May 8, 2002 - Over the years, Reggie Miller’s 3-point daggers have earned him the reputation as something of villain among New York Knicks and New Jersey Nets fans. On Wednesday, however, Miller will take off the black hat and honor a group of New York’s heroes.
Miller will present a check for $206,000 to Ladder 7, Engine 16, a New York City fire company that lost 8 men at the World Trade Center on September 11. Miller’s donation represents $1,000 for each of the 206 3-pt field goals he made during the 2001-02 NBA Season. The Funds will benefit the Uniformed Firefighters Association’s Widows and Children’s Fund.
''At a time like this, everyone wants to do something and it gives me a chance to give back to my country, '' said Miller, the NBA's all-time leader in 3-pt field goals. His 206 in 2001-02 was the second highest of his 15 year career.
Miller presented the donation to members of Ladder 7, Engine 16, located at 234 East 29th Street, on Wednesday morning. In addition to Miller’s contribution, the Indiana Pacers organization is matching his $206,000 donation to benefit the American Red Cross Greater Indianapolis Chapter.
''Reggie's contribution is indicative of what he has done for the Pacers, the City of Indianapolis and the State of Indiana throughout his career,'' said Pacers President Donnie Walsh. ''Reggie has had some great, memorable games in New York and it's appropriate he is making this, great, memorable gesture. We wanted to match his gift to show our appreciation for everything Reggie has done and, obviously, to benefit the local Red Cross during this time of national need.''
Miller has long been active in donating to victims of fires through his Reggie Miller Foundation, which he started after his home was destroyed by an arsonist in the spring of 1997.