The Ewing Legacy: A Father-Son Journey in Basketball
The world of basketball has always been filled with stories of legacies, and few are as compelling as that of the Ewing family. Patrick Ewing, a name synonymous with the New York Knicks, has recently rejoined the franchise as an ambassador, a role that allows him to contribute to both basketball and business operations. Ewing, who dedicated nearly his entire NBA career to the Knicks, expressed his excitement about returning to the organization he loves. “As I said the day my number 33 jersey lifted into the rafters at MSG, I will always be a Knick and I will always be a New Yorker. I can’t wait to get started in this new position,” he stated.
But what about his son, Patrick Ewing Jr.? While he may not have the same illustrious NBA career as his father, Ewing Jr. has carved out his own niche in the basketball world. Let’s delve into his journey and current endeavors.
Patrick Ewing Jr.’s Basketball Journey
Patrick Ewing Jr. has had a unique path in basketball, one that diverged from the NBA spotlight. Although he played in the NBA G-League (formerly known as the Development League), his time in the league was relatively brief. Ewing Jr. had a promising start, making a name for himself with an All-Star appearance in 2011. However, he struggled to maintain that momentum, ultimately playing just seven games in the NBA with the New Orleans Hornets (now Pelicans) and a few pre-season games with the Knicks in 2008 before being waived.
Despite these challenges, Ewing Jr. found opportunities overseas, playing in various leagues across Germany, Spain, Greece, and Qatar. His international experience enriched his understanding of the game, but it was his transition into coaching that would truly define his career.
A New Chapter: Head Coach of the South West Metro Pirates
Recently, Patrick Ewing Jr. was announced as the head coach for the NBL1 North’s South West Metro Pirates for the 2025 and 2026 seasons. This new role marks a significant step in his coaching career, especially since he previously served as the lead assistant coach for the Pirates last season. Chris Angus, the Pirates’ CEO, expressed enthusiasm about Ewing Jr.’s appointment, highlighting his extensive playing background and coaching experience as key assets for the organization.
Ewing Jr.’s passion for basketball and commitment to developing players will be instrumental as he leads the Pirates in their pursuit of success. His journey from player to coach reflects a deep understanding of the game, shaped by his upbringing and experiences in various competitive environments.
Coaching Experience: A Stepping Stone to Success
Ewing Jr.’s coaching journey is not without its milestones. In 2021, he began as the lead assistant coach for the Ottawa BlackJacks in the Canadian Elite Basketball League (CEBL). His impact was immediate, and he quickly advanced to become both the inaugural General Manager and Head Coach of the Newfoundland Growlers in 2022. Under his leadership, the Growlers experienced notable success, including a strong finish to the season.
Steve Konchalski, the Senior Advisor of Basketball Operations for the Growlers, recognized Ewing Jr.’s unique skill set and extensive exposure to high-level basketball. His ability to connect with players and foster a winning culture was evident, leading to a successful tenure that caught the attention of other teams.
After his time with the Growlers, Ewing Jr. returned to the BlackJacks as the Senior Director of Player Personnel, further solidifying his reputation in the coaching realm. His experiences have not only enriched his own understanding of the game but have also allowed him to contribute meaningfully to the development of players and teams.
The Ewing Legacy Continues
While Patrick Ewing Jr. may not have followed in his father’s exact footsteps within the NBA, he has embraced his own path in the basketball world. His commitment to the game, whether as a player or a coach, reflects the values instilled in him by his father. As he embarks on this new chapter with the South West Metro Pirates, fans and players alike can look forward to witnessing the evolution of the Ewing legacy in a new light.
Stay tuned for more updates on Patrick Ewing Jr. and his exciting journey in the world of basketball, as he continues to make his mark in coaching and player development.