1. Dwayne ‘Pearl’ Washington, 1983-86.
If you know, you know.
I’d argue The Pearl is the most exciting player in college basketball history.
In the open court, as a fan you simply raised to your feet. You were about to see something you hadn’t seen before.
My favorite: The first time he made a fake behind-the-back pass and turned it into a layup. Then flashed that unmatched Pearl smile.
His crossover changed the game on the court. His magnetism changed it off the court, by making the young Big East Conference must-see TV nationwide.
Pearl wasn’t that fast, he wasn’t a leaper, didn’t dunk, but he owned the court. Two courts especially: the Carrier Dome and Madison Square Garden, where his performances in the Big East Tournament are legendary.
Already a star in New York City from his high school and playground exploits, he was the most prized recruit Jim Boeheim ever brought to the hill. From Pearl’s freshman to junior seasons he averaged 15.7 points and 6.7 assists per game, but those numbers don’t illustrate the clutch shots, important moments, and breathtaking presence that won games.
I remember bringing my transistor radio to high school the day in 1986 when he would formally announce whether he was coming back or foregoing his senior year. Washington became the first Jim Boeheim-coached player to go pro early. It was a devastating day for us fans, simply because we wanted more.
More devastating was the day Pearl succumbed to brain cancer in 2016.
I made the trek from Milwaukee to my hometown Syracuse for Pearl Washington Day at the Carrier Dome that year, to pay my respects, give thanks, and watch his number 31 revealed near center court in the spot he launched his magical shot to defeat Boston College in 1984.
My “Pearl” Orange shirts are prized. You still see them worn by many fans at games. I carried his autograph in my wallet for decades.
After Pearl passed, Jim Boeheim gave a press conference and it’s the first time I have ever seen the coach cry. That’s how special a person, and important Dwayne Washington was to Syracuse basketball.
At The Pearl’s funeral, Boeheim was emotional again, and he said: “There are a lot of great players. But there is only one Pearl Washington.”
And we’ll never forget the excitement of the Pearl on the fast break.