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Rod Strickland reflected on his journey from New York City playgrounds to Oak Hill Academy and a 17-year NBA career after receiving a Lifetime Achievement Award from his former high school.

Strickland, who attended Oak Hill 41 years ago, said the honor carries additional meaning because of how much the program has grown since his time there. He pointed to the many elite players who followed him, including Kevin Durant, Carmelo Anthony and Rajon Rondo.

“When I came to Oak Hill, it wasn’t known for basketball the way it is today,” Strickland told Brandon “Scoop B” Robinson. “I was able to shine a light on The Hill, and over the years that light attracted a lot of bright stars.”

The former point guard also reflected on the influence of New York City basketball on his playing style. Strickland developed his ball handling, creativity and finishing ability on the city’s outdoor courts, where the conditions demanded adaptability.

“We had to learn to deal with the elements like the wind, the double rims, physical play and contact,” he said. “We became creative passers, penetrators and finishers around the rim because we had to find different ways to get things done.”

Strickland’s NBA career lasted 17 seasons and included stops with the New York Knicks, San Antonio Spurs, Portland Trail Blazers, Washington, Miami, Minnesota, Orlando, Toronto and Houston. He played 1,094 regular-season games, averaging 13.2 points, 3.7 rebounds and 7.3 assists.

His best statistical season came in 1997-98 with Washington, when he averaged 17.8 points, 5.3 rebounds and 10.5 assists in 76 games. He was named to the All-NBA Second Team that season and finished 18th in MVP voting.

For Strickland, however, his legacy is not defined by one season or individual achievement. He emphasized the challenge of competing against an extraordinary group of point guards throughout his career.

“I played against Magic Johnson, who was my idol, Isiah Thomas, Tim Hardaway, Gary Payton, Mark Jackson, John Stockton, Sam Cassell and so many others,” Strickland said. “Night after night, you had to compete.”

That experience also shaped his view of what makes a great point guard. Strickland believes the position ultimately revolves around making the game easier for teammates rather than simply accumulating points or assists.

“I think the best skill a point guard can have is the ability to make the game easier for everybody else,” he said. “Set the table and then eat when necessary.”

Strickland has carried that philosophy into his work with young athletes, where he said the most rewarding part is providing opportunities for players to grow, develop and sometimes receive a second chance.

“It’s bigger than basketball,” Strickland said. “It’s about helping them grow, helping them see what’s possible, and ultimately helping them become the best version of themselves.”

His message to the next generation is closely tied to his own path. Strickland hopes young players who see his name on Oak Hill’s Lifetime Achievement Award understand that reaching their goals can require leaving their comfort zone and taking a chance on an unfamiliar environment.

“I hope when they see my name, they understand that sometimes achieving your goals means being willing to get uncomfortable, take a chance and believe in where you’re trying to go,” he said.