Ex-NBA star Mark Jackson believes it isn’t even a debate.
When it comes to the topic of who the best [Knicks](https://www.nj.com/knicks/) player ever is, Jackson believes there’s only one answer: No. 33, Patrick Ewing.
“It’s not even close who the greatest Knick of all time is,” [Jackson said in a clip posted on X/Twitter](https://x.com/NBA_NewYork/status/2004752567277158579?s=20). “Patrick Ewing is the all-time leading scorer, rebounder, blocked shots, playoff minutes, points … whatever you want to look at. It’s disrespectful to name anybody else”
A deep dive into Ewing’s career, especially with the Knicks proves Jackson’s point.
Ewing spent 15 seasons (1985–2000) as the Knicks’ centerpiece. After being selected as the first-ever NBA draft lottery pick, he immediately made an impact by winning the NBA Rookie of the Year award in 1986.
During his time with the Knicks, he led them to 13 consecutive playoff appearances and two trips to the NBA Finals in 1994 and 1999.
Among Ewing’s accomplishments are 11 All-Star nods, seven All-NBA selections, and three All-Defensive Second Team member.
By the time he moved on from the team in 2000, Ewing had established himself as the Knicks’ all-time leader in nearly every major statistical category, including points (23,665), rebounds (10,759), steals (1,061), and blocked shots (2,758).
He was named to both the NBA’s 50th and 75th Anniversary teams, and his jersey number was retired by the organization in 2003.