Former Wash Heights Basketball Star Breaks Pro Barrier As Orthodox Jew

WASHINGTON HEIGHTS, NY — A former Washington Heights collegiate basketball star just made a historic professional debut as he became the first Orthodox Jew to play in an NBA G-League game.

Ryan Turell, who played four seasons at Yeshiva University at 500 W. 185th St., checked in Monday night wearing his blue yarmulke for the Motor City Cruise, which is the Detroit Piston's minor league team.

In doing so, Turell became the first Orthodox Jew to ever play at the level as he continues to pursue becoming the first Orthodox Jew to play in the NBA.

"For everybody here, for every young man, young woman of that faith, seeing Ryan perform out on the court, they're thinking, 'if he can do it, why the heck can't I,'" the game announcer said when Turell checked in.

Turell was drafted 27th overall by the Cruise in October's G-League draft.

The California native dominated during his time at Yeshiva University. In his four years at the school he never averaged less than 20 points a game, and was named on the Division III All-American first team his senior year.

During his time at the uptown school he led the squad to a record 50 game win streak that garnered national media attention.

Turell led the country in scoring last year with over 27 points a game.

You can check out the moment Turell checked into Monday night's G-League game — HERE.

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