Former Syracuse Star Pearl Washington Dies At Age 52
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MIAMI (CBSMiami) – Former Miami Heat and Syracuse university great Dwyane "Pearl" Washington has passed away at the age of 52.
Washington's basketball life began on the playgrounds of New York City before he moved on to college hoops powerhouse Syracuse under legendary coach Jim Boeheim.
Last summer Washington was diagnosed with a brain tumor and had surgery in August.
It was the recurrence of a benign tumor that surfaced 21 years ago.
Washington's impressive collegiate career led to him being drafted with the 13th pick in the first round of the 1986 NBA draft by the New Jersey Nets.
He only played three seasons in the NBA before retiring, his last coming with the Heat.
In 54 games with Miami in the 1988-89 season, Washington averaged 7.6 points per game on 42.4 percent shooting, adding 2.3 rebounds, 4.2 assists and 1.4 steals.