Brendan McCann, RIP

[fjs64]

Too many his name may not be familiar, but to me the name of St Bonaventure University was introduced to me due to him.

In the late 1950’s the NY Knicks games were televised on Saturday nights. As an avid Knick fan I would watch the games. One of there players was Brendan McCann, he wasn’t a starter, but he sure hustled. I really enjoyed watching him, and of course he was from St Bonaventure, the first time I had heard of the school. He was my favorite player.

Fast forward many years, Rose Hill Gym, prior to the game there was a memorial dinner for Tom Stith. That night, I finally met Brendan, we talked for a while. Rest in peace, former Bonnie. Thanks for the memories.

[ganyguy]

One of the first of the really great Bonnies/first round draft pick of the Knicks and a proud son of Brooklyn. In 56-57 season, McCann’s last Bonnies went to NIT/ in quarter finals Bonas played Seatle ( NIT top seed) and Elgin Baylor. ( St Bonas beat Cincinnati 90-72 in prior game). The ‘57 Bonnies NIT bid was Eddie Donovan’s first/ Bonaventure beat Seatle 85-68. The Bonnies lost to Memphis in semi finals 80-78. In the 56-57 season Baylor averaged 29.7 ppg and 20.3 rebounds/game. OUCH! Kenny Fairfield and Larry Weise also on that NIT team.Sam Stith was a member of the freshman team that season.
Rest in peace Brendan

[towniegrad]

Nice historical tribute.

[wgt]

I was at Rose Hill that day but missed meeting Brendan. I remember talking with Sam Stith & Steve Mest that day about another BKLYN kid, Billy the Kid Kenville (La Salle Academy HS) deserving his # being hung in the RC. Sam raved over KENVILLE the only player with an NBA ring.

Brendan was a 1st round #5 pick for the Knicks.
Prayers for Brendan and his family.