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Tragic news reverberates from the United States as the basketball community mourns the loss of a true legend. Johnny Green, the iconic basketball player born in 1933 and affectionately known as "Jumpin' Johnny," passed away on Thursday in Huntington, New York, leaving a void in the hearts of fans and colleagues alike.
Confirming his demise, U.S. media reported that Johnny Green, a four-time NBA All-Star, breathed his last at the age of 90. His legacy in the basketball world was most prominently etched during his tenure with the New York Knicks, where he played from 1959 to 1965.
Following his stint with the Knicks, Green continued to make his mark with the Baltimore Bullets, San Diego Rockets, Philadelphia, and Cincinnati Royals, ultimately concluding his illustrious career in 1973. Expressing their condolences, the New York Knicks released a statement, saying, "The Knicks family is saddened by the passing of former All-Star Johnny Green, also known as 'Jumpin' Johnny.'
Our thoughts are with his loved ones during this time. Once a Nick, always a Nick." The nickname clearly indicates what his strongest weapon was, which was his jump. He was 196 centimeters tall and was known for blocking, and he played until he was 39 years old.
He retired at the end of the 1972/73 season. The moniker "Jumpin' Johnny" was bestowed upon him owing to his extraordinary athletic prowess, particularly his unmatched jumping ability that set him apart from his contemporaries.
Positioned as a wing center, statistics reveal an impressive career average of 11.6 points, 8.6 rebounds, and 1.4 assists. Over the span of his remarkable 14-year NBA career, Green amassed a total of 12,281 points and 9,083 rebounds, showcasing his enduring impact on the court.
His post-retirement endeavors took an unexpected turn as he became the franchise owner of a renowned fast-food chain located near John F. Kennedy Airport in New York. The basketball community, fans, and those touched by Johnny Green's multifaceted life and career are left to reflect on the enduring legacy of a sports icon whose contributions transcended the court.