Sad news today as former Syracuse great Dwayne “Pearl” Washington has passed away at the age of 52.
via ESPN:
Washington was diagnosed with a brain tumor last summer. He had surgery in the fall.
Washington was born on January 6, 1964 and grew up in the Brownsville section of Brooklyn, NY. At a young age, he displayed such skill on the court that locals dubbed him “The Pearl” because his game resembled that of NBA great Earl “The Pearl” Monroe.
Washington excelled at Boys and Girls High School in Brooklyn and he was the nation’s most sought-after recruit in 1983. When Washington, a point guard, committed to Syracuse, coach Jim Boeheim said the program was changed forever.
Washington earned All-America recognition at Syracuse from 1984 through 1986. He was named first team All-Big East twice and he was the conference’s tournament most valuable player in 1985. He led the Orange in assists and steals during each of his three seasons with the school. Syracuse was 71-24 when Washington was with the team.
Prayers out to his family and friends. He will definitely be missed.
