We continue with Fox 40's Top 40 Most Impactful Sports Figures sponsored by UHS Sports Medicine and UHS Orthopedics.

Number 31 is the Pride of Binghamton Central, Billy Gabor!

After his days as a Central Bulldog, Billy Gabor decided to attend Syracuse University but after his freshman year, Billy The Bullet was called to duty to the United States Air Force during World War Two. After his service, Gabor returned to SU and continued to dominate there becoming a two-time Helms All-American and leading the Orange in scoring all four of his seasons. Gabor left the program and would have his number retired in 2009.

Gabor was drafted by the National Basketball Association's Syracuse Nationals where he'd make the All-Rookie team in 1949. Gabor's best year in the NBA came in 1953 when he was named an NBA All-Star averaging 9.4 points per game, his career high was 11.3 in his sophomore campaign. Gabor played two more years for the Nats, winning the NBA Championship in 1955 before retiring from basketball.

Gabor's jersey number was retired by the Syracuse Nationals and was reportedly the first jersey ever retired in the NBA. In Gabor's retirement speech, he was quick and as he wrapped up he simply pointed at his mother, Anna, and uttered the words "Thanks, Mommy." 

For his days at Binghamton Central, his storied career at Syracuse University, and then for being an NBA All-Star and Champion, all while being beloved enough in our region that he was the first in the NBA to have his jersey hung in the rafters, Billy Gabor comes in at number 31 on Fox 40's Top 40.

That wraps up the first quarter of Fox 40's Top 40, be sure to tune in every weeknight at 6 and 10 pm as we feature one sports figure per night!