Thompson’s navy blue Gaels jersey, No. 21, was retired in tribute.
Thompson distinguished himself at Kennedy as a scholar, a friend, a teammate and as a leading player on the 2004 New York State and Federation Championship team. He went on to graduate from the United States Military Academy at West Point and was serving as a 1st lieutenant in Fort Lee, Va., in August, when he collapsed and died during a pick-up basketball game.
Thompson’s parents, Lisa and Al Scott, his wife, Michelle Smyth, his former coaches, Tom Nelligan and Al Morales, his 2004 teammates, and more than 100 friends, fans and alumni took part in Tuesday night’s ceremony.
“Tyrell’s reputation as a gentleman, scholar and basketball player was very much alive when I came to Kennedy,” said the Rev. Mark Vaillancourt, Kennedy's president and principal. “I’ve been blessed and humbled to learn from his friends and family about the wonderful man he became, someone about whom Kennedy can be most proud.”
“Some say that Ty helped make Kennedy,” said Thompson’s mother, Lisa Scott, referring to the 2004 championship. “But they must also realize that Kennedy helped make Ty.”
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