James Wilson (basketball) facts for kids

James "Pookie" Wilson was a famous streetball player from Far Rockaway, Queens in New York City. Streetball is a type of basketball played on outdoor courts. It is known for its exciting and creative style.

College Basketball Star

James Wilson played college basketball at John Jay College. He played as a guard, which is a position on the team. His coach there was Bob Fox. Even though he was 5 feet 9 inches tall, he was considered one of the best players in his college league. He helped his team reach the finals of the CUNY championship.

Streetball Legend

James Wilson became very famous playing streetball. People often compare him to Oscar Robertson, a legendary NBA Hall of Famer. Both players were amazing but sometimes did not get enough recognition for their skills.

Pookie Wilson was especially known for playing at the Rucker Park Tournament. This is a very famous streetball event in New York City. In one professional league tournament, he scored an average of 35 points in each game. He even scored 62 points in a single game!

In 1986, James Wilson set a record by scoring 63 points in an Entertainers Basketball Classic game. This record stood for 21 years! He played on a pro team called Chic All Stars. His teammates included Steve Burtt Sr. and NBA player Kevin Williams. Wilson also once scored an amazing 100 points in a game for the Police Athletic League.

Books have called James Wilson one of the "asphalt legends." This means he was one of the greatest players on outdoor courts. Other legends include Joe Hammond and Herman Knowings. He was truly a Rucker Park legend. One book even said he was good enough to play in the NBA.

Personal Life

James Wilson's nephew, Jamar Wilson, is also a professional basketball player.