Our guest speaker for this meeting will be Gene Banks, former Duke and NBA basketball star. Growing up in Philadelphia, one of America’s toughest basketball hotbeds, Banks quickly made a name for himself on the courts of Philly. By the time he enrolled at West Philadelphia High School, he was already being touted as one of the nation’s top prep players. At West Philadelphia, he led his team to three straight Public League championships and a remarkable 68-game winning streak. His combination of size (6-foot-7), strength, and skill was rare for a high school player in the 1970s. He could post up like a big man, handle the ball like a guard, and slash to the basket with authority. His dominance earned him the distinction of being named the 1977 National High School Player of the Year by Parade Magazine. Major programs across the country recruited him, but Banks ultimately chose to attend Duke University, a decision that would cement him as a trailblazer for the Blue Devils.
When Banks arrived at Duke in 1977, the program was respected but not yet considered a national powerhouse. Mike Krzyzewski wouldn’t arrive until 1980; at the time, Bill Foster was the head coach. Banks, along with teammates like Jim Spanarkel and Mike Gminski, transformed Duke basketball into a contender. Banks wasted no time making an impression. In his freshman season (1977–78), he averaged nearly a double-double and became a centerpiece of a team that advanced to the 1978 NCAA championship game. Duke fell to Kentucky in that final, but Banks’ fearless play on the national stage announced the program’s arrival. Over four seasons, Banks became known for his all-around game. He wasn’t just a scorer—though he finished his Duke career with over 2,000 points, one of the first Blue Devils to do so. He was also a tenacious rebounder and defender, routinely matching up against bigger opponents and outworking them.
By his senior year in 1981, Banks was a captain and one of the most respected players in the ACC. He earned All-ACC honors three times and was named a second-team All-American. His career at Duke helped lay the foundation for the success the program would enjoy under Coach K in the decades to follow.
Banks entered the 1981 NBA Draft and was selected in the second round (28th overall) by the San Antonio Spurs. While second-round picks weren’t always expected to become impact players, Banks quickly proved he belonged at the professional level. In San Antonio, Banks joined a roster led by George Gervin, “The Iceman,” one of the smoothest scorers in NBA history. Banks carved out his role as a versatile forward who could defend, rebound, and provide secondary scoring. He wasn’t flashy, but his hustle and adaptability made him a fan favorite. One of his best seasons came in 1983–84, when he averaged nearly 15 points and 6 rebounds per game. He played an important role in helping the Spurs remain competitive in the rugged Western Conference.
In 1985, Banks signed with the Chicago Bulls, just as a young rookie named Michael Jordan was beginning to take the league by storm. While Jordan was the clear star, Banks provided veteran leadership and a reliable presence at forward. He played two seasons with the Bulls, often tasked with guarding tough opponents and doing the dirty work that doesn’t always show up in the box score. By the end of his NBA career, Banks had appeared in 468 games and scored over 4,000 points, solidifying himself as a dependable role player in the league.
After leaving the NBA, Banks continued his basketball journey overseas. He played professionally in Europe, particularly in Italy and Israel, where his leadership and experience were highly valued. Like many American players who extended their careers abroad, Banks became both a cultural ambassador and a star in international leagues.
When his playing days ended, Banks transitioned into coaching and player development. He worked with several programs at various levels, sharing his knowledge and passion for the game with younger generations.
Even after his professional career, Banks remained closely connected to Duke and the broader basketball community. He has been honored repeatedly by the university for his contributions as one of the players who helped raise Duke’s national profile. In 2007, he was inducted into the Duke Sports Hall of Fame, a fitting recognition of his legacy. Banks has also been involved in charitable efforts and mentoring, using his platform to encourage young athletes to pursue education alongside their athletic ambitions.
Mark Your Calendar
(All Meetings at Croasdaile Country Club)
10/1/25 – Johnny Evans, Former NC State and NFL Star
10/15/25 – A Special Guest Speaker
11/5/25 – A Different Special Guest Speaker