Who was Dean Meminger?
Dean Meminger was a former basketball player and coach who played a reserve role on the New York Knicks’ 1973 NBA championship team. He was also a college star at Marquette University, where he won the 1970 National Invitation Tournament and was named a Consensus first-team All-American in 1971. He was known as “The Dream” for his skills and charisma on the court.
How did Dean Meminger die?
Dean Meminger was found dead on August 23, 2013, in a Manhattan hotel room. He was 65 years old. According to the New York Post, he might have died of a drug overdose, as he was found with “white stuff oozing out of his nose”. The official cause of death was later confirmed by the medical examiner as acute cocaine intoxication. Meminger had a long history of drug addiction and had survived a fire in 2009 that was caused by a crack pipe.
What was Dean Meminger’s legacy?
Dean Meminger’s death was mourned by many in the basketball community, especially by his former teammates and coaches. He was remembered as a talented and passionate player who helped the Knicks win their second and last NBA title in 1973. He was also a successful coach in the minor leagues, leading the New York Stars to the WBL championship in 1980 and winning the WBL Coach of the Year award. He was inducted into the Marquette Hall of Fame in 2003 and had his number 14 jersey retired by the school.
Dean Meminger was a basketball legend who had a tragic end. His cause of death was a reminder of the dangers of drug abuse and the need for more awareness and prevention. His life was a story of highs and lows, of dreams and nightmares, of glory and sorrow. He will always be remembered as a champion, a warrior, and a dreamer.
