John Isaacs facts for kids
| Guard | |
| Personal information | |
|---|---|
| Born | September 15, 1915 Rio Sidra, Panama |
| Nationality | American |
| Died | January 26, 2009 (aged 93) Bronx, New York |
| High school | Textile (Manhattan, New York) |
| Listed height | 6 ft 3 in (1.91 m) |
| Listed weight | 190 lb (86 kg) |
| Career history | |
| 1935–1936 | St. Peter Claver Penguins |
| 1935–1936 | New York Harlem Giants |
| 1936–1937 | New York Collegians |
| 1936–1943 | New York Rens |
| 1941–1942 | Philadelphia Toppers |
| 1941–1947 | Washington Bears |
| 1942–1945 | Long Island Grumans |
| 1943–1944 | Harlem Globetrotters |
| 1946–1947 | Hazleton Mountaineers |
| 1946–1947 | Orange |
| 1947–1949 | Utica Olympics |
| 1948–1949 | Brooklyn Gothams |
| 1949 | Dayton Rens |
| 1950–1951 | Saratoga Harlem Yankees |
| 1950–1951 | Glen Falls / Saratoga |
| Career highlights and awards | |
|
|
John William Isaacs (born September 15, 1915 – died January 26, 2009) was an amazing professional basketball player. He was born in Panama but grew up in New York City. John Isaacs played for famous teams like the New York Renaissance and the Washington Bears. He was known for his skill and being a great teammate.
Contents
Early Life and Basketball Beginnings
John Isaacs was born in 1915 in Panama. His father was from Jamaica, and his mother was Panamanian. He moved to Harlem, New York, and learned to speak both English and Spanish.
High School Success
John was a tall guard at 6 feet 3 inches and 190 pounds. He played basketball for Textile High School. In 1935, he led his team to win the New York City High School Basketball championship. He was even named an "all-City" player, which meant he was one of the best in the city!
Joining the New York Rens
After high school, John got a chance to play professional basketball. Bob Douglas, who owned the New York Renaissance team, offered him a contract. The Rens were a famous all-African American team from Harlem. John accepted the offer after getting his mother's approval.
Professional Basketball Career
John Isaacs became a key player for the New York Rens. He helped them achieve incredible winning records. For example, in one season, they won 122 games and lost only 19!
Winning Championships
The Rens won the first-ever World Professional Basketball Tournament in 1939. This big tournament was held in Chicago. The Rens beat the Harlem Globetrotters in a close game. Then, they defeated the Oshkosh All-Stars to win the championship.
John Isaacs won a second championship in 1943. This time, he played for the Washington Bears. They also beat the Oshkosh All-Stars in the final game. John scored 11 points, helping the Bears win their first title.
Life as a Pro Player
Playing professional basketball was John's main job. He earned $175 each month, plus money for his travel and other costs. During the off-season, he also worked other jobs. He worked at Grumman Aircraft and for New York Life Insurance.
Playing for Many Teams
After his time with the Rens and Bears, John played for several other teams. These included the Manhattan Nationals and the Hazleton Mountaineers. He also played for the Utica Olympics and teams in the American Basketball League.
Life After Basketball
After retiring from playing, John Isaacs became a coach and a mentor. He helped guide younger players. Famous basketball player Chris Mullin even said that John Isaacs was one of his teachers.
Later Achievements
Even long after his professional basketball career, John stayed active. He won medals in many different sports at the New York State Senior Games. He earned awards in tennis, Frisbee, softball throwing, and even basketball!
Hall of Fame Recognition
On February 14, 2015, John Isaacs received a huge honor. He was announced as a member of the Naismith Memorial Basketball Hall of Fame. This means he is recognized as one of the greatest basketball players of all time. He officially entered the Hall of Fame on September 11, 2015.
See also
In Spanish: John Isaacs para niños
