In 1981, the South Jersey Basketball Hall of Fame had its first induction ceremonies, with Ronald Itchy Smith being the first player from Camden High to be inducted. Itchy was one of the best players in NJ during that era, and was responsible for leading Camden High to 2 undefeated state champions, before graduating in 1960. Coach Anthony Tony Alfano and Golden Sonny Sunkett were also inducted the following year in 1982, and I was inducted in February, 1984. It should be noted that these first three (3) inductees were all members of the 1960 undefeated state championship team, as well as our coach, Mr. Alfano. Another interesting fact is that Itchy, Sonny and myself, all were products of the basketball courts located in Branch Village, in Centerville section of Camden. Another tidbit is that all three of these earlier inductees had a last name that began with an S, which I thought was interesting. The plague shown here is from my induction ceremony. Although, I was able to break Itchys single season scoring record during my senior year in 1962; no one could ever match or compare to Itchys overall ability and talent on the basketball court. However, as the only freshman on the 1960 team, I benefitted from the winning spirit exhibited by that team and the mentorship of Itchy, Sonny, and Ralph Heath, during that year.
Posted on: Sat, 18 Jan 2014 07:37:51 +0000
Recently Viewed Topics
© 2015