Former St. John’s star and NBA forward Malik Sealy died in a car accident 12 years ago today, May 20.
Sealy was driving home in Minnesota from a birthday party for friend and teammate Kevin Garnett, when he was struck by a drunk driver who was traveling the wrong way down the highway. Sealy’s SUV reportedly did not have an airbag and he was not wearing his seatbelt.
Sealy averaged 18.9 points per game over his four seasons at St. John’s, and was an All-American in 1991-92. He was drafted 14th overall by the Indiana Pacers in the 1992 NBA draft.
He was a New York-born prospect who stayed in the city to play his college ball, something that traditionally helped St. John’s to build a strong program.
His best collegiate season came when he was a senior, averaging 22.6 points and 6.8 rebounds. In the NBA, he just over 10 points per game in his career.
Since his death, the Minnesota Timberwolves have retired his jersey number. Garnett, who was close with Sealy, has a tattoo honoring him.
Daniel Martin is a writer and editor at JohnnyJungle.com, covering St. John’s. You can find him on Twitter:@DanielJMartin_