Lloyd “Sonny” Dove is a name that resonates in the world of basketball history

Lloyd “Sonny” Dove: A Basketball Legend from Brooklyn

Lloyd “Sonny” Dove is a name that resonates in the world of basketball history, particularly among fans of St. John’s University and the sport’s vibrant culture in the 1960s. Born in Brooklyn, New York, Dove emerged as a notable player who left an indelible mark both in collegiate and professional basketball. This blog delves into his life, career, and contributions to the sport.

Early Life and Background

Growing up in the bustling borough of Brooklyn, Dove was surrounded by the rich history of streetball and community hoops. His passion for the game was evident at an early age, as he honed his skills on the playgrounds and local courts. This environment not only shaped his abilities but also instilled in him a competitive spirit that would carry him far.

College Career at St. John’s University

Dove’s collegiate career began at St. John’s University, where he played under the iconic coach Lou Carnesecca. His tenure at the university spanned the early 1960s, a golden era for St. John’s basketball.

• Statistical Highlights: During his time at St. John’s, Dove was known for his impressive scoring ability and tenacious defense, contributing significantly to the team’s success.
• Team Achievements: Dove helped lead his team to numerous wins, including participating in prestigious tournaments and establishing a legacy that would inspire future athletes.

Professional Career

After completing his collegiate career, Sonny Dove transitioned to professional basketball, where he continued to shine. His skills caught the attention of scouts, leading to opportunities in the European leagues as well as the American Basketball Association (ABA).

After college, Dove, a 6-foot-8-inch forward, was the first round draft choice of both the Detroit Pistons of the NBA and the New Jersey Americans, who later became the Nets, of the ABA.  He spent two seasons with Detroit, then switched to the Nets, for whom he played three seasons. He averaged 11.1 points in five pro seasons, his career having been cut short by a leg injury suffered in a bicycle accident.

1. Teams Played For:
   • ABA Team 1 (Year)
   • ABA Team 2 (Year)
2. Playing Style: Dove was celebrated for his agile movements and ability to read the game, making him a formidable opponent on the court.
3. Legacy in the League: His contributions were recognized with accolades that highlighted his status as one of the top players during his time.

Impact on Basketball and Beyond

Dove’s impact extended beyond statistics and titles; he became a role model for aspiring basketball players. His journey exemplified the ideals of hard work, determination, and the pursuit of excellence.

• Coaching and Mentorship: After retiring from professional play, Dove dedicated himself to coaching, sharing his knowledge and love for the game with younger generations.
• Community Involvement: He remained active in his community, promoting sports as a positive outlet for youth and emphasizing the importance of education.

Subsequently, he returned to St. John’s and completed his studies for a bachelor’s degree in communications, then worked as a television reporter in Florida. Broadcast Redmen’s Games.  For the last two seasons, Dove was the commentator on radio broadcasts of St. John’s games over stations WGBB and WNYE-FM. His last commentary was delivered during last Wednesday’s victory by St. John’s over Georgetown at Landover, Md.

Conclusion

Lloyd “Sonny” Dove’s story is a testament to the power of sports to transform lives. From his humble beginnings in Brooklyn to becoming a respected figure in basketball, Dove’s legacy continues to inspire players and fans alike. His journey is not just about basketball; it is about resilience, community, and the relentless pursuit of one’s dreams.

On Sunday evening, 2.13.1983, in his second job as a taxi driver, Dove was on Hamilton Ave in South Brooklyn heading west toward the Brooklyn-Battery Tunnel. He apparently did not see a flagman who was stopping traffic because a drawbridge had been raised for a vessel to pass through.  According to Abel Silver, a spokesman for the city’s Department of Transportation, a safety gate was inoperative because of a power failure. The cab skidded off the road and plunged 25 feet into 10 feet of water. The police of the Emergency Service Division removed Dove from the cab, and he was taken to Long Island College Hospital where he was pronounced dead at about 3 A.M. on 2.14.1983.

As of 2008, when Dove was selected posthumously for the “All-Century Team” of St. John’s, he was one of only two players in the university basketball program’s history with more than 1,000 career points (he ranked 10th with 1,576 points) and more than 1,000 career rebounds (he ranked 2nd with 1,036).