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Francis E. "Frank" Stronczek

High school career
He played high school basketball at Chicopee High School, as a three-year member of the varsity team, Stronczek earned All-Western Massachusetts honors in his final three seasons thanks to his scoring and rebounding ability. In his varsity career, the 6-foot-7 center accumulated 1,102 points, becoming the first ever 1,000 point scorer in the school’s history. As a senior, Stronczek was awarded the Stepczyk and Labovich (best player in Western Massachusetts) awards.

At that time he was recruited by top programs like; Ohio State University, University of Michigan, Purdue University. He ultimately decided to commit to the College of Holy Cross and play for coach Frank Oftring. Then NBA player and Alum Bob Cousy persuaded him and his mom to join the Crusaders.

Holy Cross Crusaders
Due to the NCAA rules that did not allow freshman to play on the varsity squad, Stronczek played on the freshman team and averaged 16 points and 17 rebounds. With the school being very religiously orientated something he was not used to, he looked to transfer elsewhere for the next year.

AIC Yellowjackets
Stronczek contacted local schools UMass and Springfield College, and ultimately found his perfect fit at American International College (AIC). He would be joined by future legendary coach Jim Calhoun and played for three seasons. Leaving his mark on the Yellow Jacket record books, with school records for rebounds in a season (717) and career (1,548). He also holds the school record for most points in a game, dropping 48 on Boston University during the 1966-67 season.

Professional career
He was drafted in the sixth round of the 1967 NBA draft by the Cincinnati Royals as the 62nd overall pick.