Al Eford Jr was a big part in giving back in the game of basketball in the New York City area. On Sunday November 27, 2022 he passed away at the age of 67. Al grew up in Harlem, New York. He was a standout at Long Island Lutheran High School back in the 70’s as a player. Then played at the University of Wyoming.
Eford played professionally overseas in Europe, South America, and Mexico. Then played several seasons in the Pro-Am, Rucker, West 4th, and other leagues. In addition, he played for WBLS basketball squad. He was a popular person playing in Harlem and watching played at City College or any game in Harlem when he scores the crowd cheer his name loudly Al.
Even playing in the New York City area he started coaching for the Riverside Church Hawks. Al was a devoted coach to Riverside or teaching someone the game. He coach Elton Brand, Ron Artest III, Lamar Odom, Erick Barkley, Rafer Alston, Lenny Cooke, and other NBA players as well as top division one prospects.
Eford also coached in the high school and college level. His stops was Manhattan Center, LaSalle HS, Fairfield, St Paul’s (VA), and Howard. Then he returned back to the high school level in Maryland. He coached at Reginald Lewis, Carver, and Friends high school. Also he coached Team Durant AAU program in the Baltimore/Washington DC area.
Al Eford Jr had a passion in working with the youth. He will be greatly missed by the basketball community. We want to say thank you for giving back coach Al.
Yes Thank you Al Eford Jr
God knew you was The one who would give Back and save Lives.
Job extremely well done 🙏🏿
Al Eford is my oldest cousin and we share the same passion. He will be missed but never forgotten. He fought a good fight. Job well done.
Rest in Power Big Al. For your outstanding contribution playing and coaching Basketball for so many young men. You were also an outstanding human being. Job well done 🙏 🙏 🙏.
Missing you terribly cuz.
May God grant you all the peace you deserve. I know you’re ballin in Heaven!
Love Ya!
Al’s Service:
Viewing : Thursday 12/15 – 4pm – 7pm
Funeral: Friday 12/16 – 11 am Wake 12 Noon Service
Vaughn Greene Funeral Services
8728 Liberty Road
Randallstown, MD
Funeral service will be lived streamed at: http://www.vaughncgreene.com
I went to the same elementary school as Alphonso Eford, St. Thomas the Apostle on St. Nicholas Ave. Al was a few years older than me and his character as a standout ball player and scholar followed him off the court and throughout his life. I later learned that he and my cousins Mike Martinez and Marcelo Cartagena played in many of the same leagues throughout Harlem and each of these guys modeled the principles of hard work and brotherhood that we could all live by. To an impeccable Gentleman, baller and scholar, Rest Well Mr Eford, You have earned your wings.