HIS LIFE

Reggie Lewis was born in 1965. Reggie was raised in a modest urban home and lived with his mother Peggy and brothers Irvin and Jon. At an early age, Reggie already acquired a love for basketball and was seldom seen outside of the court. His devotion to the game would eventually lead him to the Boston Celtics and to national fame. Now Reggie's footprints appear in the cement outside of the court that he played on as a child.

In high school he played for the Dunbar Poets. His talent eventually earned him a spot at Northeastern University, where he transcended everyone's expectations as a starter for the Huskies. In Freshman year he averaged 18 points per game, by Senior year he averaged 23.3 points per game. Lewis lead his team to victory in 4 National Atlantic Conference Titles and ultimately NCAA Tournaments. In 1987 he graduated from Northeastern, not only with the highest score in New England Collegiate history but also the position as the newest rookie on the Celtics.

He made the team in the first round drafts, and eventually made his way to team captain, following Larry Bird's departure. In 1993 Lewis was at the pinnacle of his career. He was averaging 21 points per game and was leading the Celtics in a great season. However, a coronary defect in his heart would lead to the premature end of his career and his life. On July 27, 1993, Lewis collapsed and eventually died while practicing in Northeastern's arena.

Hundreds of people came to the open memorial service held in Boston. In addition to his illustrious career, Reggie was equally as famous for his dedication to the betterment of his community. After his death, his work continues through his wife Donna Harris-Lewis, who sponsors the Thanksgiving Turkey Give-Away to help the under-privilege have a better holiday. In addition to sustaining the mission of her husband, Donna Harris-Lewis is also raising their children Reggie, and Reggina, to live with the same compassionate spirit as their father. .

In 1995 Reggie Lewis was inducted into Northeastern's Basketball hall of fame, and his number, 35, was retired by the Celtics.

There is a novel named Quiet Grace written by Craig Windham about Reggie Lewis' Life.

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