George Bucci Jr.

George Bucci is an American former professional basketball player who played in the American Basketball Association (ABA) and had a long career in Italy's Lega Basket Serie A. He is known for winning an ABA Championship with the New York Nets.

Player Profile

George P. Bucci Jr. was born on July 9, 1953, in Newburgh, New York, United States of America. He stands 188 cm tall and his playing weight was listed at 86 kg. Bucci played primarily as a shooting guard.

College Career

He attended Newburgh Free Academy in Newburgh, New York. Bucci played college basketball for Manhattan College from 1971 to 1975.

Professional Career

Bucci was selected by the Buffalo Braves in the third round (52nd overall) of the 1975 NBA Draft and by the New York Nets in the 1975 ABA Draft. He chose to sign with the Nets and played for them during the 1975–76 ABA season.

Bucci was part of the Nets' ABA championship-winning team in 1976.

After being cut by the Nets before the 1976-77 season, Bucci moved to Italy, where he played in the Lega Basket Serie A from 1977 until 1992. He had a successful career in Italy, playing for teams such as Fortitudo Pallacanestro Bologna, Mens Sana Basket, and Montecatiniterme Basketball.

He retired in 1992.

Post-Playing Career

After retiring from basketball, Bucci entered politics. In the 1990s, he was elected to political office, serving as a councilman and later as supervisor of Newburgh, New York.

Career Highlights

• 1976 - ABA champion
• 2018 - Inducted into MAAC Honor Roll