Press Releases

August 15, 1995
NBA Veteran Sidney Green Named Basketball Coach at Long Island University's Southampton Campus

Contact: Jane Finalborgo
(516) 287-8313

Southampton, N.Y. -- Sidney Green, a ten-year veteran of the NBA who played for the Orlando Magic and the New York Knicks, has been named the men's basketball coach at the Southampton Campus of Long Island University, Provost Tim Bishop announced today.

One of the most respected players in the NBA, Green was known throughout his basketball career for his commitment to community service and his outreach efforts on behalf of youth. In Orlando he was founder of "Sid's Kids," an organization designed to motivate and promote self esteem in underprivileged and handicapped children. He also served as a Players Representative, a position in which he negotiated, mediated, advised and voted on issues which served the best interests of the players and the NBA.

"We're delighted to have someone of Sidney's stature and experience join our athletic program, and we know his appointment will have positive results for both the basketball program and the college as a whole," said Provost Bishop at a press conference at the College. "Our players will profit from his many years of NBA experience, and his commitment to community service goes hand-in-hand with the College's emphasis in that area." Green replaces former coach Mark Dellacave who has resigned.

Green's basketball career began in Brooklyn, N.Y. at Thomas Jefferson High School where he was a former All American and New York City Player-of-the-Year in 1979. A graduate of the University of Nevada, Las Vegas, he was the only player in the school's history to have his uniform retired. In 1983 he was drafted by the Chicago Bulls and had the honor to play alongside Michael Jordan for two years. He went on to play for several other NBA teams, among the most memorable the New York Knicks in 1987. While he was in New York he participated in Governor Mario and Matilda Cuomo's Mentor Program as a spokesman in public schools on self-esteem, drug abuse and other issues important to youth. In 1989 he was the first player drafted in the first year of the Orlando Magic franchise history.

In 1989 he received the National Spirit of Love Award, given by the NBA Players Association to the player who gives as much back to the community as he receives. He has adopted as his motto: "Success should not be judged by what you achieve, but by the service you give to society."

"I am honored for the opportunity to be affiliated with such a fine college as Southampton," said Mr. Green. "I'm excited about the returning student athletes and the possible future recruits who will be attending our school. With the support of the students, faculty and the community, it will be a wonderful and beneficial beginning of an exciting journey. Running Colonials...here we go!"

Currently living in Winter Springs, Florida with his wife Deidra and two children, Green is actively involved with various business enterprises which are run by a professional management company. He plans to relocate to Southampton where he will begin his coaching job in the Fall.