NBA Legends and Players Explain How Special Patrick Ewing Really Was

Patrick Ewing is one of the most underrated legends in NBA history, a fact that many fans and analysts overlook when discussing the greatest players of all time.

While his name might not be as frequently mentioned as Shaquille O’Neal, Hakeem Olajuwon, or Kareem Abdul-Jabbar, those who played with and against him know exactly how special he was.

Ewing’s career was defined by relentless toughness, consistency, and leadership, qualities that made him the cornerstone of the New York Knicks for over a decade.

Ewing’s journey to NBA stardom began far from the bright lights of Madison Square Garden.

Born in Jamaica, he moved to the United States as a child and quickly rose through the ranks of high school and college basketball.

At Georgetown University, he became a dominant force, leading the Hoyas to multiple NCAA championship games and winning the title in 1984.

His college success translated into being the first overall pick in the 1985 NBA Draft, where he was immediately thrust into the pressure cooker of New York City.

Playing in the NBA’s biggest market meant that Ewing was under constant scrutiny.

The Knicks were a team hungry for success, and Ewing became the face of the franchise, carrying the hopes of an entire city.

Despite never winning an NBA championship, Ewing’s impact was profound.

He finished in the top five of MVP voting six times, a testament to his dominance and influence on the court.

What set Ewing apart was his ability to balance offense and defense at an elite level.

He was a shot-blocking machine and a fierce rim protector, but he also evolved into a reliable scorer, finishing his career with over 25,000 points.

Unlike some of his contemporaries known for their flashy moves or larger-than-life personalities, Ewing was a steady presence who “punched the clock” every night, focusing on winning rather than highlights.

His teammates and rivals alike have praised Ewing’s greatness.

Grant Hill, who grew up idolizing Ewing, wore his number in tribute and described facing him in Madison Square Garden as surreal.

Jaylen Rose called Ewing “PE Crazy,” highlighting his versatility and toughness.

Even Charles Oakley, a longtime Knicks teammate and fierce competitor, called Ewing “probably the most underrated of all the great centers,” emphasizing that Ewing’s lack of a championship ring shouldn’t diminish his legacy.

One of the reasons Ewing’s greatness is sometimes overlooked is the lack of a true co-star to alleviate the pressure.

While other legends had elite teammates—Michael Jordan had Scottie Pippen, Larry Bird had Kevin McHale and Robert Parish, Magic Johnson had Kareem Abdul-Jabbar—Ewing often had to carry the Knicks mostly on his own.

Players like John Starks and Anthony Mason were gritty and determined but not star-caliber, meaning Ewing bore the brunt of the team’s responsibilities.

Despite the challenges, Ewing’s commitment never wavered.

He was the heart and soul of the Knicks, inspiring teammates and fans with his grit and determination.

His career serves as a reminder that greatness is not solely defined by championships but by the respect earned through hard work, leadership, and consistency.

In the eyes of NBA legends and those who truly understand the game, Patrick Ewing is not just a great player—he is one of the most special figures in basketball history.

If you haven’t appreciated his impact yet, perhaps you simply weren’t paying close enough attention.