UAB alumnus receives key to the city from New York mayor

New York Mayor Zohran Mamdani honored former Hoover High School and UAB basketball star Trey Jemison on Thursday, presenting him with a key to the city during a historic celebration.

A City Celebration

The ceremonial presentation took place outside City Hall following a massive ticker-tape parade marking the New York Knicks’ first NBA championship since 1973. The festivities concluded with Mayor Mamdani bestowing keys to the city upon the team's coaches and players.

New York secured the title on Saturday night, closing out their best-of-seven NBA Finals series against the San Antonio Spurs in five games with a 94-90 victory.

Jemison's Role in New York

Although Jemison was not eligible for the postseason roster due to his status as a two-way player, he provided depth for the championship organization throughout the 2025-26 campaign.

Under NBA rules, two-way contracts allow players to balance time between the league's standard 15-player roster and their G League affiliates, such as the Westchester Knicks. Jemison made 13 appearances for the main roster this season, recording 13 points, 18 rebounds, and two blocks across 82 minutes of play.

During his time with the Westchester Knicks, Jemison was a consistent presence in 31 games, averaging 8.3 points, 8.7 rebounds, 2.5 assists, 1.1 steals, and 1.3 blocked shots.

A Career Path Through Birmingham and Beyond

Jemison’s journey to the NBA stage began after his time at Hoover and collegiate stints at Clemson and UAB. He launched his professional career locally with the Birmingham Squadron during the 2023-24 season.

Over three seasons, the versatile big man has seen action in 76 NBA regular-season games, representing the Washington Wizards, Memphis Grizzlies, New Orleans Pelicans, Los Angeles Lakers, and New York.