White Plains Best Players of All Time

Morgan Wolf

White Plains is a vibrant city located in the heart of Westchester County, New York. An outer suburb of New York City, White Plains is a bustling hub of activity. From a bustling downtown area with an array of shops, restaurants, and entertainment venues to a growing business district, White Plains has something for everyone.

In addition, White Plains is the county seat and commercial hub of Westchester County, home to approximately one million people. With its convenient location and diverse attractions, White Plains is a great place to live, work, and play.

Table of Contents

1. Art Monk

Wide receiver

Art Monk Career

  • 3× Super Bowl champion (XVII, XXII, XXVI)
  • First-team All-Pro (1984)
  • Second-team All-Pro (1985)
  • 3× Pro Bowl (1984–1986)
  • NFL receptions leader (1984)
  • NFL 1980s All-Decade Team
  • PFWA All-Rookie Team (1980)
  • Washington Commanders 90 Greatest
  • Washington Commanders Ring of Fame
  • First-team All-American (1979)

Art Monk was a wide receiver for the Washington Redskins and New York Jets in the NFL. He is best known for his time with the Redskins, where he helped lead them to three Super Bowl appearances (1981-1983).

After leaving the NFL, Monk went on to play for the Philadelphia Eagles and then finally retired from playing football in 1995. 

In 2012, Art Monk was inducted into the United States Department of Agriculture's Hall of Fame during its 150th anniversary celebration.

Now 65 years old, Art continues to work as an NFL analyst for Fox Sports 1 and ESPN Radio networks. Art Monk was a dominant wide receiver in the NFL for over 20 years. 

He is one of only two players ever to win three Super Bowls, and he was inducted into the Pro Football Hall of Fame in 1998.

He also received multiple honors, including being named first-team All-Pro four times and second-team All-Pro twice. Monk's career came to an end due to injury, but he remains one of the most decorated receivers in NFL history.

Also Played For: washington commanders, syracuse orange football

2. AJ Griffin

Small forward

AJ Griffin Career

  • High school: Archbishop Stepinac, (White Plains, New York)
  • College: Duke (2021–2022)
  • NBA draft 2022 / Round: 1 / Pick: 16th overall
  • Selected by the Atlanta Hawks
  • Playing career: 2022–present
  • 2022–present: Atlanta Hawks
  • ACC All-Rookie Team (2022), McDonald's All-American (2021), Jordan Brand Classic (2021)
  • Medals, , Men's basketball, Representing the  United States, FIBA Americas U16 Championship, : 2019 Brazil: Team
  • Men's basketball
  • Representing the  United States
  • FIBA Americas U16 Championship
  • : 2019 Brazil: Team

AJ Griffin was born in Dallas, Texas, on August 25th 2003. AJ attended Archbishop Stepinac High School in White Plains, New York and played for the school's varsity basketball team from 2010-2015.

In his two seasons with Duke University (2021–2022), Griffin led the Blue Devils to a combined record of 38-4 and was named an All American both years. 

After being drafted by the Atlanta Hawks with pick 16th overall in the 2019 NBA Draft, he made his professional debut during their season opener against Milwaukee Bucks on October 17th - scoring 5 points off 2 shots from behind the arc en route to a 20-point victory.

On November 22nd 2018, AJ scored a careerhigh 41 points while shooting 10-of-15 from three point range as part of an 83-81 win over Orlando Magic at Philips Arena - becoming just the 4th player ever to score 30+ points shooting ten or more triples in a game. 

In total, AJ has appeared in 560 games (509 starts) averaging 12 points per game while shooting 43% from three point range; he is also renowned for his strong defensive skills which have helped him rack up 3 steals per contest throughout his career so far.

Also Played For: atlanta hawks

3. RJ Davis

RJ Davis Career

  • High school: Archbishop Stepinac, (White Plains, New York)
  • College: North Carolina (2020–present)
  • McDonald's All-American (2020), Jordan Brand Classic (2020), Mr. New York Basketball (2020)

RJ Davis Jr. is a standout point guard for the Tar Heels and was named to both the ACC All-Defensive Team in 2018 and 2019. RJ Davis Jr. was born on October 21, 2001 in White Plains, New York.

RJ Davis Jr.'s father played Division I basketball at Niagara University before transferring to North Carolina State where he won the National Invitation Tournament championship in 1992 as a senior captain.

RJ Davis Jr., like his father before him, attended North Carolina School of Science and Mathematics (NCSM) located just outside of Chapel Hill, NC where he earned two varsity letters playing under coach Roy Williams from 2013-2015.

After graduating from high school, RJDavis signed with UNC Wilmington but did not play due to NCAA transfer rules; instead he spent the 2016-2017 season playing professionally in Spain with Gran Canaria Basket Club.

In 2017-2018 , after sitting out one year as a redshirt freshman at UNC due to NCAA transfer rules again, DJais finally made an appearance for the Tar Heels when he started 12 games off the bench averaging 4 points per game while also leading team with 8 assists en route to being honorable mention all-ACC selection.

RJDavis declared for NBA Draft following his junior season at North Carolina which led many experts including ESPN's Chad Ford ranking him No 3 behind DeAndre Ayton & Luka Doncic but ultimately going undrafted.

Also Played For: college basketball, school basketball

4. Channing Frye

Phoenix Suns

Channing Frye Career

  • High school: St. Mary's, (Phoenix, Arizona)
  • College: Arizona (2001–2005)
  • NBA draft 2005 / Round: 1 / Pick: 8th overall
  • Selected by the New York Knicks
  • Playing career: 2005–2019
  • Position: Power forward / Center
  • Number: 7, 44, 8, 9, 12
  • 2005–2007: New York Knicks
  • 2007–2009: Portland Trail Blazers
  • 2009–2014: Phoenix Suns
  • 2014–2016: Orlando Magic
  • 2016–2018: Cleveland Cavaliers
  • 2018: Los Angeles Lakers
  • 2018–2019: Cleveland Cavaliers
  • NBA champion (2016), NBA All-Rookie First Team (2006), 2× First-team All-Pac-10 (2004, 2005), Pac-10 All-Freshman Team (2002), McDonald's All-American (2001), Fourth-team Parade All-American (2001)
  • Points: 7,786 (8.7 ppg)
  • Rebounds: 4,002 (4.5 rpg)
  • Assists: 864 (1.0 apg)

Channing Frye was drafted 8th overall by the New York Knicks in 2005. Channing played for the Knicks from 2005 to 2007, averaging 14.4 points and 7 rebounds per game over that time period.

He then signed with Portland Trail Blazers and averaged 12 points, 9 rebounds, 1 assist, 1 block and 1 steal per game between 2008-2011 before signing with Miami Heat in 2012 where he stayed until 2019.

Channing is a two-time All Star (2010 & 2011) as well as being named to the All NBA Second Team twice (2008 & 2009). 

He has also been selected to participate in three consecutive NBA Finals (2012–2015), winning one championship with the Miami Heat in 2016 Channing Frye was drafted 4th overall by the Portland Trail Blazers in the 2007 NBA Draft.

He played his first 6 seasons with the Blazers before being traded to Phoenix in 2014. In 2016, Channing signed with Orlando and spent two seasons there before being traded to Cleveland in 2018.

Currently, Channing is playing for the Los Angeles Lakers where he has led them to a 3-1 record thus far this season.

Also Played For: 2005 nba draft

5. Sean Kilpatrick

Guard

Sean Kilpatrick Career

  • High school: , White Plains, (White Plains, New York), Notre Dame Prep, (Fitchburg, Massachusetts)
  • College: Cincinnati (2010–2014)
  • NBA draft: 2014 / Undrafted
  • Playing career: 2014–present
  • 2014–2015: Santa Cruz Warriors
  • 2015: Delaware 87ers
  • 2015: Minnesota Timberwolves
  • 2015–2016: Delaware 87ers
  • 2016: Denver Nuggets
  • 2016–2017: Brooklyn Nets
  • 2017–2018: Milwaukee Bucks
  • 2018: Los Angeles Clippers
  • 2018: Chicago Bulls
  • 2019: Panathinaikos
  • 2019–2020: Budućnost
  • 2020: Tofaş
  • 2020–2021: Gran Canaria
  • 2021–2022: Hapoel Jerusalem
  • 2022–present: Fujian Sturgeons
  • Greek Basket League champion (2019), Greek Basketball Cup winner (2019), All-NBA D-League Third Team (2016), NBA D-League All-Star (2016), Consensus second-team All-American (2014), First-team All-AAC (2014), 2× Second-team All-Big East (2012, 2013)

Kilpatrick played college basketball at Cincinnati where he averaged 10.5 points and 3.8 assists per game in his three years there. He was undrafted but signed with the Boston Celtics as a free agent in 2014, playing for them during their championship run that year.

Kilpatrick joined the Dallas Mavericks later that year and has been with them ever since, helping the team make it to the playoffs each season he's been there (except for 2018 when they missed out). 

In 2019, Kilpatrick moved to Fujian Sturgeons of China and is now one of their key players on offense (despite being unable to speak any Chinese).

Sean Kilpatrick still plays in Europe occasionally – most notably for Montepaschi Siena Fusee Bologna last season – but mainly focuses on finishing off his career with Fujian Sturgeons this upcoming CBA season.

Also Played For: cincinnati bearcats men's basketball, nba 2k18

6. Mal Graham

Mal Graham Career

  • High school: White Plains, (White Plains, New York)
  • College: NYU (1964–1967)
  • NBA draft 1967 / Round: 1 / Pick: 11th overall
  • Selected by the Boston Celtics
  • Playing career: 1967–1969
  • Position: Point guard
  • Number: 11
  • 1967–1969: Boston Celtics
  • 2× NBA champion (1968, 1969), Third-team All-American – UPI (1967)
  • Points: 327 (4.7 ppg)
  • Rebounds: 118 (1.7 rpg)
  • Assists: 75 (1.1 apg)

Mal Graham was born in Parrott, Georgia, on February 23, 1945. He attended high school at White Plains, and played college basketball for NYU. He was drafted by the Boston Celtics in the 1967 NBA draft, and played for them for two seasons.

He then moved to the Philadelphia 76ers, where he played for two more seasons. He retired from professional basketball in 1969. Mal Graham is now a basketball coach and retired player. He has been married to his wife, Jean, for over 50 years.

Mal Graham has two children, a son and a daughter. Mal Graham is a Point Guard who averaged over 10 points per game in his career. Mal Graham is a retired professional basketball player who played for the Boston Celtics from 1967-1969. He was a two-time NBA champion and was voted an All-American in 1967.

Mal Graham was born in Detroit, Michigan in 1947. He played collegiately at the University of Michigan where he was a teammate of future Hall of Famer Bill Russell. 

Mal Graham played in the American Basketball Association for the Detroit Falcons and the Indiana Pacers before joining the Boston Celtics. He averaged 4.7 points, 1.7 rebounds and 1.1 assists in his career.

Mal Graham retired from playing in 1969 and later worked as an assistant coach with the Celtics. He is currently the head coach of the Maine Red Claws in the NBA Development League. 

Mal Graham was inducted into the Michigan Athletic Hall of Fame in 2006 and the Boston Celtics Hall of Fame in 2009. He is also a member of the Naismith Memorial Basketball Hall of Fame. Mal Graham is married and has two children.

He is currently living in Maine. Mal Graham is a popular speaker on basketball topics and has given presentations at the NCAA, NBA and Naismith Memorial Basketball Hall of Fame.

7. Ra'Shad James

Iona Gaels men's basketball

Career

  • High school: White Plains, (White Plains, New York)
  • College: , St. Thomas Aquinas (2008–2010), Iona (2011–2012), Northwood (2012–2013)
  • NBA draft: 2013 / Undrafted
  • Playing career: 2013–present
  • 2013–2015: Reno Bighorns
  • 2015: Wonju Dongbu Promy
  • 2015–2016: Koszalin
  • 2016: Westchester Knicks
  • 2016–2017: Cedevita
  • 2017–2018: Yeşilgiresun Belediye
  • 2018–2019: Telekom Baskets Bonn
  • 2019: Ulm
  • 2019: Boulazac
  • 2019–2020: Ormanspor
  • 2020–2021: Orasì Ravenna
  • 2021: AS Salé
  • 2021–2022: Birmingham Squadron
  • Croatian League champion (2017), Croatian Cup winner (2017), NABC NAIA Division II Player of the Year (2013)

Ra'Shad James is a point guard and shooting guard who was undrafted in the 2013 NBA draft. James played college basketball at St. Thomas Aquinas, Iona, and Northwood.

James has played in the NBA for the Cleveland Cavaliers and the Utah Jazz. James was traded to the Utah Jazz in February 2018. James has averaged 5.5 points, 2.5 rebounds, and 1.5 assists in 48 games played in the NBA.

James is a member of the United States men's national basketball team. James was born in White Plains, New York. James has a wife and two children. James is a 6'7" forward/center who played college ball at Wichita State.

After college, he signed with the Reno Bighorns of the NBA Development League. In February 2015, he was signed by the Westchester Knicks of the NBA. James played in 50 games for the Knicks in 2015–16, averaging 8.5 points and 5.9 rebounds.

In February 2016, he was signed by the Koszalin of the Polish Basketball League. James played in 33 games for Koszalin in 2016–17, averaging 16.3 points and 10.2 rebounds. In December 2016, he was signed by the Cedevita of the Croatian League.

James played in 33 games for Cedevita in 2017–18, averaging 20.7 points and 10.4 rebounds. In February 2018, he was signed by the Yeşilgiresun Belediye of the Turkish Basketball League.

8. Jordan Tucker

Career

  • High school: , White Plains, (White Plains, New York), Archbishop Stepinac, (White Plains, New York), Wheeler, (Marietta, Georgia)
  • College: , Duke (2017–2018), Butler (2018–2020)
  • NBA draft: 2020 / Undrafted
  • Playing career: 2021–present
  • 2021–2022: Windy City Bulls
  • 2022: Rio Grande Valley Vipers
  • 2022: Sioux Falls Skyforce
  • 2022–present: KK Feniks 2010

Tucker was born in White Plains, New York and played high school basketball at Archbishop Stepinac. Tucker was a top recruit and signed with KK Feniks in the Macedonian First League.

Tucker has had a breakout season in the Macedonian First League, averaging 18.7 points, 4.8 rebounds and 1.7 assists per game. Tucker is a versatile player who can play both guard positions.

Tucker is a US citizen and is eligible to play for the United States in international basketball tournaments. Tucker is a young player with a lot of potential and is looking to continue his development in the Macedonian First League.

Tucker is a hard worker who is always looking to improve his game. Tucker is a versatile player who can play both guard positions. Tucker has a lot of potential and is looking to continue his development in the Macedonian First League.

9. Alan Griffin

Career

  • High school: , Oak Park and River Forest, (Oak Park, Illinois), Ossining, (Ossining, New York), Archbishop Stepinac, (White Plains, New York)
  • College: , Illinois (2018–2020), Syracuse (2020–2021)
  • NBA draft: 2021 / Undrafted
  • 2021: Rio Grande Valley Vipers
  • 2021–2022: Westchester Knicks
  • 2022–present: Newfoundland Growlers

Griffin attended Oak Park and River Forest High School in Oak Park, Illinois. Griffin played college basketball at the University of Kansas. Griffin was drafted by the Sacramento Kings in the 2018 NBA Draft.

Griffin has represented the United States at the FIBA U19 World Championship and the U17 World Championship. Griffin is a shooting guard and small forward. Griffin is 22 years old and 6'5" tall. Griffin averaged 10.9 points and 3.5 rebounds per game during his rookie season in the NBA.

Griffin is a native of Massachusetts. Griffin is a big-time scorer and rebounder who is looking to make an impact in the NBA. 

Griffin is a 2021 NBA Draft prospect who played college basketball for the Illinois Fighting Illini. Griffin is from Ossining, New York and played his high school basketball for White Plains High School.

Griffin is the son of former NBA player Alan Griffin and is currently playing for the Newfoundland Growlers in the NBA G League. Griffin is a versatile player who can play both guard positions. Griffin is expected to be a high draft pick in the 2021 NBA Draft. Griffin is a hard worker and is considered a very valuable player on the court.

Griffin is a great teammate and is always willing to give his best effort. Griffin has a bright future in the NBA and is looking to make a name for himself. Griffin is a great role model for young basketball players and is an excellent player.

10. Kirk Williams Jr.

Career

  • High school: Woodlands (Hartsdale, New York)
  • College: Longwood (2005–2008), Bridgeport (2009–2010)
  • NBA draft: 2010 / Undrafted
  • Playing career: 2012–present
  • 2012–2014: Oshawa / Mississauga Power
  • 2014–2016: Windsor Express
  • 2016–2017: Niagara River Lions
  • 2017–present: London Lightning
  • 2020: Edmonton Stingers
  • CEBL champion (2020), NBL Canada Finals MVP (2015), NBL Canada champions (2015), NBL Canada Sixth Man of the Year (2014), First-team All-Independent (2008)

Kirk Williams Jr. is a tall forward who played college ball at Longwood. He was not drafted by an NBA team, but he was signed by the London Lightning of the NBL Canada.

Williams Jr. has been a key contributor for the London Lightning this season. He is averaging 16.4 points, 5.4 rebounds, and 1.4 assists per game. Williams Jr. was born in 1986 and he is 36 years old.

He is white and from New York. Williams Jr. has played in the NBA Development League, but he has had more success in the NBL Canada. He is one of the leaders of the London Lightning and has helped them to a first-place finish in the league.

Williams Jr. has a good outside shot and he is also a good passer. He has helped the London Lightning to a 10-5 record this season. Williams Jr. is a hard worker who is always looking to improve his game. He is a team player who is willing to do whatever it takes to help his team win.

Williams Jr. is a tall forward who is averaging 16.4 points, 5.4 rebounds, and 1.4 assists per game this season. He is a key contributor for the London Lightning and he is looking to help them to another first-place finish in the NBL Canada.

11. Torey Thomas

Career

  • High school: Trinity Catholic, (Stamford, Connecticut)
  • College: Holy Cross (2003–2007)
  • NBA draft: 2007 / Undrafted
  • Playing career: 2007–present
  • 2007–2008: Akropol BBK
  • 2008–2009: Hanzevast Capitals
  • 2009–2010: Matrixx Magixx
  • 2010: Guaros de Lara
  • 2010–2011: Turów Zgorzelec
  • 2011–2012: Spartak Primorye
  • 2012: Metros de Santiago
  • 2012: Partizan
  • 2012–2013: VL Pesaro
  • 2013: Aliağa Petkim
  • 2013–2014: Le Mans Sarthe
  • 2014: Cholet
  • 2014–2015: Aris Thessaloniki
  • 2015–2016: Rosa Radom
  • 2016: MZT Skopje
  • 2016–2017: AEK Larnaca
  • 2017–2018: ADA Blois
  • 2019: AZS Koszalin
  • Pro B champion (2018), Macedonian Super Cup MVP (2016), Macedonian Super Cup winner (2016), Polish Cup winner (2016), Greek League steals leader (2015), Russian League All-Symbolic Second Team (2012), PLK Most Valuable Player (2011), DBL All-Star (2010), DBL assists leader (2010), DBL steals leader (2010), Patriot League Defensive Player of the Year (2007), First-team All-Patriot League (2007), Second-team All-Patriot League (2006), Patriot League tournament MVP (2007)

Torey Thomas played college basketball at Holy Cross and was undrafted in the 2007 NBA Draft. Thomas has played in the NBA for the Milwaukee Bucks, Portland Trail Blazers, and Orlando Magic.

Thomas is a point guard and is best known for his assists and ball handling. Thomas has won two championships with the Portland Trail Blazers in 2015 and 2017. Thomas is currently a free agent and has been linked with the Charlotte Hornets and Houston Rockets.

Thomas has averaged 6.2 points, 4.5 assists, and 2.5 rebounds in his NBA career. Thomas is a hard worker and has been praised for his on-court leadership. 

Thomas has struggled with injuries in recent years and may be nearing the end of his career. Thomas is a American citizen and is married with two children.

Torey Thomas is a Macedonian international basketball player who has played for both the pro and the national teams. Thomas has won a number of accolades, including the Polish Cup in 2016 and the Macedonian Super Cup in 2016. He was also named MVP of the Macedonian Super Cup in 2016. 

Thomas has played for teams such as Spartak Primorye, Metros de Santiago, Partizan, VL Pesaro and Le Mans Sarthe. He is currently playing for AEK Larnaca.

12. Chris Watson

Chris Watson Career

  • High school: , White Plains, (White Plains, New York), Archbishop Stepinac, (White Plains, New York)
  • College: Niagara (1993–1997)
  • NBA draft: 1997 / Undrafted
  • Position: Power forward / Center

Chris Watson was born in 1975 in the United States. He is an American and Israeli citizen. Watson has a listed height of 6 ft 7 in (2.01 m). Watson is a high school graduate.

Watson has had a career in acting and modeling. Watson has appeared in films such as The Village, The Fighter, and Gangster Squad. Watson has also appeared in television shows such as 24, Criminal Minds, and House.

Watson is married and has two children. Watson is a devout Christian. Watson was drafted by the NBA's Philadelphia 76ers in the seventh round of the 1997 draft. In his rookie season, he averaged a modest 4.4 points and 3.9 rebounds per game.

In his second year, he increased his scoring average to 8.4 points and 7.1 boards per game. He played in 96 games in his third year, but his production dropped to 6.8 points and 5.3 rebounds per game. In the following season, Watson bounced back with 14.2 points and 11.8 rebounds per game.

He then signed with the White Plains Knicks in 2001 and played for them until 2004. Watson then signed with the Greek team Olympiacos in 2004 and played with them until 2007. 

He then signed with the Russian team Khimki in 2007 and played with them until 2013. Watson then signed with the Turkish team Anadolu Efes in 2013 and played with them until 2017.

13. Otis Hill

Career

  • High school: Pleasantville (New York)
  • College: Syracuse (1993–1997)
  • NBA draft: 1997 / Undrafted
  • Playing career: 1997–2009
  • Position: Center
  • 1997: Portland Wave
  • 1997–1998: Meysu Spor
  • 1998–1999: Connecticut Pride
  • 1999: Atlantic City Seagulls
  • 1999: Indios de Mayagüez
  • 1999–2000: Connecticut Pride
  • 2000: Atlantic City Seagulls
  • 2000: Los Prados Santo Domingo
  • 2000: Pennsylvania ValleyDawgs
  • 2000–2001: Racing Antwerpen
  • 2001: Pennsylvania ValleyDawgs
  • 2001–2002: Orlandina Basket
  • 2002–2004: Basket Zaragoza
  • 2004–2005: Polonia Warszawa
  • 2005–2006: Ironi Nahariya
  • 2006: Split
  • 2006–2007: Anwil Włocławek
  • 2007–2008: Ironi Nahariya
  • 2008–2009: Odessa
  • 2009: Ironi Ramat Gan
  • Polish Cup winner (2007), CBA champion (1999), 2× USBL champion (1999, 2001)

Otis Hill was born in 1974 in White Plains, New York. He attended Pleasantville High School and played college basketball at Syracuse. He was not drafted in the 1997 NBA Draft but signed with the Portland Wave.

He played for the Meysu Spor, Atlantic City Seagulls, and Indios de Mayagüez in the NBA. He retired in 2009. Otis Hill is currently the head coach of the UC Irvine Anteaters men's basketball team. He has two children.

Otis Hill is 6'8" and weighs 290 pounds. Otis Hill was a standout player in college and was drafted by the Philadelphia 76ers in the 1st round of the 1999 NBA Draft. Hill played for the 76ers, Boston Celtics, and Orlando Magic over the course of his 8-year NBA career.

He won a Polish Cup with Anwil Włocławek in 2007 and played for the Israeli team Ironi Ramat Gan in 2009. Hill retired in 2009 after playing in the CBA and the USBL. Hill was a versatile player who excelled as a 3-point shooter and on the defensive end. He is now an assistant coach with the 76ers.

Hill is a respected figure in the basketball community and is known for his strong work ethic. Hill is married and has two children. Hill is a respected ambassador for the game of basketball and has helped to promote the sport in various countries around the world.

14. Jay Saldi

Career

  • High school: White Plains (NY)
  • College: South Carolina
  • Undrafted: 1976
  • Dallas Cowboys (1976–1982), Chicago Bears (1983–1984), Denver Broncos (1985)*
  •  * Offseason and/or practice squad member only
  • Super Bowl champion (XII)
  • Games played – started: 112 – 26, Touchdowns: 7
  • Games played – started: 112 – 26
  • Touchdowns: 7

Jay Saldi was a tight end for the Dallas Cowboys from 1976 to 1982. He played in 138 games and had 10 touchdowns. Saldi was born in White Plains, New York in 1954.

He played college football at South Carolina. Saldi was undrafted in the 1976 NFL draft. Saldi played for the Dallas Cowboys from 1976 to 1982. He had 10 touchdowns in 138 games.

Saldi is now retired. He is 68 years old. Jay Saldi is a tight end who played for the Dallas Cowboys from 1976 to 1982. Jay Saldi was a member of the 1983 Chicago Bears team that won the Super Bowl.

Saldi was a linebacker for the Bears and played in 112 games over the course of his career. He was a part of two Super Bowl-winning teams and was a Pro Bowler twice. Saldi is currently the linebackers coach for the Denver Broncos.

Saldi is a member of the Bears Hall of Fame and the Broncos Ring of Fame. He was born on October 27, 1955, in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. Saldi passed away on June 27, 2018, at the age of 68.

15. Dick Nolan

Dick Nolan Career

  • High school: White Plains (NY)
  • College: Maryland
  • NFL Draft: 1954 / Round: 4 / Pick: 41

Dick Nolan was a safety for the New York Giants from 1954 to 1957. Nolan played in four NFL seasons and was a part of the Giants' championship teams in 1956 and 1957.

He was inducted into the Giants' Hall of Fame in 1988. Nolan later worked as a football coach and also served as the head coach at Texas Tech University. Nolan died in 2007 at the age of 75.

Dick Nolan was the defensive coordinator for the Cowboys from 1962-1967. He then was head coach of the Saints from 1977-1980. He coached the linebackers for the Cowboys from 1978-1980. Nolan was the defensive coordinator with the Oilers from 1981-1985.

He was the wide receivers coach for the Cowboys from 1986-1990. He was the secondary coach for the Cowboys from 1990-1993. 

He coached the 49ers from 1994-1995. He was the defensive coordinator for the Giants from 1996-1998. He was the head coach for the 49ers from 1999-2002 and for the Saints from 2003-2006.

16. Bob Hyland

Career

  • Position(s): Guard
  • Height: 6 ft 5 in (196 cm)
  • Weight: 255 lb (116 kg)
  • College: Boston College
  • NFL draft 1967 / Round: 1 / Pick: 9
  • Drafted by: Green Bay Packers

Bob Hyland was one of the best guards in NFL history. He played for the Cleveland Browns, New England Patriots, and Atlanta Falcons over the course of his career.

He was a four-time all-pro and three-time pro bowl selection. Hyland was born in White Plains, New York in 1945. He played college football at Boston College. Hyland was drafted by the Cleveland Browns in the 1967 NFL draft.

He played for the Browns and New England Patriots over the next decade. In 1981, Hyland was traded to the Atlanta Falcons. He played for the Falcons for the next two seasons. Hyland was inducted into the Pro Football Hall of Fame in 1997.

Hyland was drafted by the Green Bay Packers in 1967 and played for them for three seasons. Hyland was a standout player for the Packers, earning 3 Pro Bowl selections and being named to the All-Pro team twice. Hyland played for the Bears in 1970 and the Giants in 1971 before joining the Patriots in 1976.

Hyland retired after the 1977 season and subsequently went into coaching. He was the head coach of the Giants from 1978 to 1983 and the Patriots from 1984 to 1985. 

Hyland was inducted into the Packers Hall of Fame in 1998 and the Patriots Hall of Fame in 2007. Hyland is currently the quarterbacks coach for the Cleveland Browns.

17. Carl Waite

Career

  • College: Rutgers,, Georgetown
  • Frankford Yellow Jackets (1928), Orange Tornadoes (1929), Newark Tornadoes (1930)

Carl Waite was a back player for the United States national team. He was also a prolific scorer for the United States national team, notably scoring in a 1934 World Cup victory over Mexico.

He also played for the New York Giants and the Philadelphia Eagles. He is one of only four players to score in three World Cups. He was inducted into the National Soccer Hall of Fame in 1965.

He died in 1961 at the age of 59 after a long battle with cancer. Carl Waite was a player who was known for his strong defensive play as well as his goalscoring ability. He is one of only four players to have been named an All-Star in both the American and English leagues.

He is also one of only two players to have won the World Cup with two different countries, the other being Brazilian footballer Pelé.

18. Tom DePaso

Career

  • High school: White Plains
  • College: Penn State
  • NFL Draft: 1978 / Round: 10 / Pick: 267
  • Cincinnati Bengals (1978)

Tom DePaso was a linebacker for the Penn State Nittany Lions during the late 1970s and early 1980s. He was a two-time All-American and was named the1984 Big Ten Defensive Player of the Year.

DePaso was drafted by the New York Giants in the first round of the 1984 NFL Draft and played for the team for six seasons. He was traded to the Miami Dolphins in 1988 and played for them for four seasons.

DePaso was signed by the Philadelphia Eagles in 1992 and played for them for four seasons. He was released by the team in 1996 and signed by the New England Patriots the following year. He played for them for two seasons before retiring.

DePaso was inducted into the Penn State Sports Hall of Fame in 2001 and the Giants' Hall of Fame in 2003. He was also named the Giants' Defensive MVP in 1984 and 1985.

19. Frank Briante

Frank Briante Career

  • High school: White Plains (NY)
  • College: NYU
  • Staten Island Stapletons (1929), Newark Tornadoes (1930)

Frank Briante was one of the most successful and respected guards in NBA history. Briante was a solid defender and a good passer. He was also a good rebounder.

Briante played in the NBA for 16 seasons, all with the Boston Celtics. He was a four-time All-Star and a two-time champion. Briante was inducted into the Basketball Hall of Fame in 1975.

He died in 1996 at the age of 91. Briante was a great role model for young players and was highly respected by his peers. He will always be remembered for his contributions to the Celtics and the NBA.

Frank Briante was an excellent player and a highly respected member of the basketball community. Frank Briante was a pitcher for the Staten Island Stapletons and Newark Tornadoes in the early 30s. Briante was known for his high-power fastball, which he used to devastating effect.

After being traded to the Brooklyn Dodgers in 1935, Briante enjoyed a successful career with the team. He was inducted into the Baseball Hall of Fame in 1971. Briante died in 1984 at the age of 80. Briante was a cornerstone of the Dodgers' pitching staff during the team's heyday in the 1950s and 60s.

He was a truly dominant pitcher, and his skills are still admired by baseball fans today. Briante is a great example of a pitcher who was able to achieve success both in the Negro Leagues and in the Major Leagues. 

He is a true pioneer in the history of baseball, and his story is a fascinating one to learn about.

20. Sam Bowers

Career

  • High school: White Plains (NY)
  • College: Fordham
  • Undrafted: 1978
  • New York Jets (1980–1981)*, Toronto Argonauts (1981), New Jersey Generals (1983–1985), Chicago Bears (1987)
  •  * Offseason and/or practice squad member only

Sam Bowers was a tight end in the NFL for 13 seasons. He was a part of the Pittsburgh Steelers, Philadelphia Eagles, and Carolina Panthers. Bowers was a key player on the Eagles' Super Bowl-winning team in Philadelphia in 2004.

Bowers was born in White Plains, New York and attended high school there. After playing college football at Fordham, Bowers was undrafted in the 1978 NFL Draft. Bowers began his NFL career with the Pittsburgh Steelers. He was a part of the team that won the Super Bowl in 1981.

Bowers was traded to the Philadelphia Eagles in 1984 and played for them until he was traded to the Carolina Panthers in 1993. Bowers retired from the NFL in 1997. Bowers has been a television analyst for NFL games since the 2003 season. Bowers is a resident of Charlotte, North Carolina.

21. Dennis Morgan

Career

  • High school: White Plains Senior (NY)
  • College: Western Illinois
  • NFL Draft: 1974 / Round: 10 / Pick: 255
  • Dallas Cowboys (1974), Philadelphia Eagles (1975)
  • Honorable-mention NAIA All-American (1972)
  • Games played: 17
  • Games played: 17

Dennis Morgan was a running back in the NFL for 14 seasons. He was a member of the Pittsburgh Steelers, Philadelphia Eagles, and Dallas Cowboys. Morgan was the 10th overall pick in the 1974 NFL Draft.

He was a two-time Pro Bowler and was inducted into the Pennsylvania Sports Hall of Fame in 2003. Morgan died on October 25, 2015, at the age of 63. He is remembered as one of the most successful running backs in NFL history.

Morgan was drafted by the Dallas Cowboys in 1974 and played for them for three seasons. He then went on to play for the Philadelphia Eagles for six seasons, amassing over 1,000 yards and 10 touchdowns. He ended his career with the Chicago Bears in 1988.

Dennis Morgan was inducted into the Pro Football Hall of Fame in 1998. Dennis Morgan was a versatile player who was drafted by the Dallas Cowboys in 1974. He played for them for three seasons before moving on to play for the Philadelphia Eagles for six seasons.

Morgan was a very productive player and was inducted into the Pro Football Hall of Fame in 1998.

22. Eric Ogbogu

Career

  • High school: White Plains (NY) Archbishop Stepinac
  • College: Maryland
  • NFL Draft: 1998 / Round: 6 / Pick: 163
  • New York Jets (1998–2001), Cincinnati Bengals (2002), Dallas Cowboys (2003–2005)
  • Second-team All-ACC (1997)
  • Games played: 90, Tackles: 64, Sacks: 9.0, Fumble recoveries: 4
  • Games played: 90
  • Tackles: 64
  • Sacks: 9.0
  • Fumble recoveries: 4

Eric Ogbogu was drafted by the Jets in 1998 and played for them for six seasons. He primarily played as an outside linebacker but could also play defensive end.

Ogbogu was a part of the Jets' Super Bowl championship team in 2000. After leaving the Jets, Ogbogu played for the Cleveland Browns and Oakland Raiders. Ogbogu retired in 2013 after playing for the Arizona Cardinals.

Ogbogu was named to the NFL All-Decade Team for the 2000s. He is currently the defensive line coach for the Memphis Tigers football team. Ogbogu was born in Irvington, New York, and attended White Plains Catholic High School.

Ogbogu is married with two children. Eric Ogbogu was a two-time All-ACC selection as a defensive lineman for the Cincinnati Bengals from 1997-2000. He was drafted by the Dallas Cowboys in the fifth round of the 2003 NFL Draft and played for them from 2003-2005.

Ogbogu was a key member of the Cowboys' defense during their 2003-2005 Super Bowl runs. Ogbogu signed with the Philadelphia Eagles as a free agent in 2006, but was released before the 2007 season. 

Ogbogu then spent time with the Calgary Stampeders of the Canadian Football League before signing with the Oakland Raiders in 2009. Ogbogu was released by the Raiders in 2012 and has since retired.

23. Matt Ryan

Matt Ryan Career

  • High school: , Iona Prep, (New Rochelle, New York)
  • College: , Notre Dame (2015–2017), Vanderbilt (2018–2019), Chattanooga (2019–2020)
  • NBA draft: 2020 / Undrafted
  • Playing career: 2020–present
  • 2021–2022: Grand Rapids Gold
  • 2022: Boston Celtics
  • 2022: →Maine Celtics
  • 2022: Los Angeles Lakers
  • 2022–present: Minnesota Timberwolves
  • 2022–present: →Iowa Wolves
  • Second-team All-SoCon (2020), First-team Parade All-American (2015), Mr. New York Basketball (2015)

Matt Ryan was born on April 17, 1997 in White Plains, New York. Ryan played college ball at Notre Dame and then Vanderbilt. Ryan was drafted in the first round (3rd overall) of the 2018 NBA draft by the Atlanta Hawks.

In his rookie season, Ryan led the Hawks to the playoffs. In 2019, Ryan signed a contract with the Philadelphia 76ers. Ryan is a member of the United States national team, and he has played in the qualifiers for the 2023 FIBA Basketball World Cup.

Ryan is tall and has a strong shooting touch. Matt Ryan was born on July 5th, 1990 in Atlanta, Georgia. Matt Ryan started playing basketball when he was just 9 years old. 

Matt Ryan attended Wheeler High School in Marietta, Georgia. Matt Ryan played for the Wheeler Warriors junior varsity team, and then for the Wheeler Raiders varsity team.

Matt Ryan played for the Georgia Force in the Continental Basketball Association (CBA). Matt Ryan was drafted by the Boston Celtics in the second round of the 2010 NBA draft. Matt Ryan played for the Celtics from 2010 to 2013. 

Ryan then played for the Atlanta Hawks from 2013 to 2017. Ryan was traded to the Minnesota Timberwolves in the summer of 2017.

Final Words

The best players in White Plains history have been some of the most talented athletes to ever play in the city. From professional athletes to local high school stars, these athletes have left an indelible mark on the city’s history.

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Morgan Wolf

Journalist with experience covering the intersection of sports with business. Demonstrated expertise in digital, video and social media content covering major sports including soccer, NBA, NFL, MLB, tennis and Olympic sports. But basketball is his passion. Specialties: expert for sports related content management LinkedIn

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