Georgetown hires Patrick Ewing as men's basketball coach

In announcing the hire, Georgetown called Ewing "the greatest men's basketball player to ever don the Blue (and) Gray."

Ewing has been an assistant coach with the NBA's Charlotte Hornets and had hoped for years to land a head coaching job in the pros.

"Of all the players that have gone from superstardom to putting in the time and paying their dues to becoming a head coach, Patrick deserves this probably more than any player ever," said Miami Heat president Pat Riley, who coached Ewing with the Knicks.

An extended search took place before school officials ultimately decided to hire Ewing, who will have to quickly acclimate himself to the complex web of recruiting and academic eligibility requirements that are not a part of the NBA coach's concerns.

"To hire a head coach with this depth of coaching experience and personal achievements is tremendous," athletic director Lee Reed said.