The Best Kept Secret
Kareem Reid, nicknamed “The Best Kept Secret,” is a Bronx basketball legend whose talent shined from the playgrounds of New York to the professional stage, to the Arkansas Sports HOF and St Rays HOF.
Shoutouts to the Bronx and EBC Entertainers Basketball Classic for always putting on a show on tv while I was growing up. During the summer no NBA hoops was on so I always used to watch Street Ball when it came on ESPN. I got introduced to Kareem Reid when I was younger and he came to Milbank in Harlem located on 118th and 5th avenue to run a youth clinic. Cool dude, mad down to earth, but his knowledge of the game was elite. So today I said let me pay tribute to another New York Hoops legend that a lot of people probably wouldn’t know about until now.
Kareem Reid, known as “The Best Kept Secret,” was born on August 27, 1975, in the Bronx, New York. Growing up in one of the most vibrant basketball hubs in the world, Reid developed his skills on the playgrounds of New York City, where legends are made. His journey from the streets of the Bronx to professional basketball is a testament to his determination, skill, and love for the game.
Kareem Reid’s love for basketball began at an early age. Living in the basketball-rich environment of the Bronx, he was surrounded by the culture and competitiveness that defined New York City hoops. It wasn’t just a sport—it was a way of life. Young Kareem honed his craft on the local courts, where he developed the slick handles, sharp vision, and fearless mentality that would later define his game.
From the start, Reid had the drive to succeed. Growing up in a working-class neighborhood, he used basketball as both an escape and a way to make his mark. His talent didn’t go unnoticed. By the time he reached high school, he was already making waves in NYC basketball circles.
Kareem Reid attended St. Raymond High School for Boys, a prestigious basketball program in the Bronx. Under the bright lights of the Catholic High School Athletic Association (CHSAA), Reid quickly established himself as one of the top players in the city.
In his junior year in 1993, Reid led St. Raymond’s to the CHSAA City Championship in a thrilling victory over Rice High School, which was led by another NYC basketball legend, Felipe Lopez. The win cemented Reid’s reputation as a clutch performer and a leader. He didn’t stop there. St. Raymond’s went on to defeat Walton High School, the PSAL City Champions, to claim the New York State Championship.
As a senior in 1994, Reid repeated his success by leading St. Raymond’s to another CHSAA City Championship. By this point, he was widely regarded as one of the top point guards in the country. His stellar high school career earned him a spot in the prestigious McDonald’s All-American Game, a recognition given only to the best high school players in the nation.
While Kareem Reid was dominating the high school scene, he was also making a name for himself in the streetball world. Playing at the legendary Rucker Park, Reid earned the nickname “The Best Kept Secret” for his ability to electrify crowds with his dazzling ball-handling, court vision, and scoring ability.
Reid became a household name in NYC streetball when he joined Fat Joe’s Terror Squad team in the Entertainer’s Basketball Classic (EBC). Between 2002 and 2004, Reid led the Terror Squad to three consecutive EBC championships. In the 2004 championship game, his team defeated a group featuring NBA stars Baron Davis and Gilbert Arenas.
Reid’s performances at Rucker Park solidified his status as one of the greatest streetball players of all time.
After graduating from St. Raymond’s, Reid committed to play college basketball at the University of Arkansas under legendary coach Nolan Richardson. Richardson’s fast-paced “Forty Minutes of Hell” system was the perfect fit for Reid’s style of play
Reid had to sit out the 1994–95 season as a Prop 48 player, but he made an immediate impact when he joined the team the following year. In 1996, he helped lead the Razorbacks to the Sweet 16 in the NCAA Tournament. Although Arkansas had won the national championship in 1994 and finished as runners-up in 1995, Reid’s arrival ensured the team remained competitive.
Reid’s playmaking ability, court vision, and leadership made him a standout player for the Razorbacks. His time at Arkansas further prepared him for a career in professional basketball.
In 1994, Reid participated in the U.S. Olympic Festival, helping the East team win a silver medal. His performance showcased his skills on a national stage and solidified his reputation as one of the best young point guards in the country.
In 1999, Reid competed in the Portsmouth Invitational Tournament, a showcase for NBA prospects. He averaged 10.3 points and 8.7 assists, impressing scouts with his play. Despite his strong performance, Reid went undrafted in the 1999 NBA Draft.
Although he didn’t make it to the NBA, Kareem Reid built an impressive professional career in the United States and overseas.
In 2003, he signed a free-agent contract with the New Orleans Hornets. While he was released before the regular season began, he left a strong impression on NBA All-Star Baron Davis, who praised Reid as one of the toughest players to guard.
Reid joined the Asheville Altitude in the NBDL (now the G League) and helped lead the team to a championship in the 2003–04 season. He averaged 12.0 points and 6.7 assists per game during the season.
Reid’s success continued in the ABA, where he played for the Arkansas RimRockers. He led the league in assists, averaging 9.0 per game, and was named league MVP. Reid also earned Championship Game MVP honors when the RimRockers won the ABA title in 2005.
He remained with the RimRockers when they transitioned to the NBDL, leading the league in assists again with 8.1 per game during the 2005–06 season.
Reid also had stints with the Albany Patroons in the Continental Basketball Association (CBA) and played professionally in France.
Kareem Reid’s contributions to basketball extend beyond his playing career. His performances at Rucker Park, his leadership at Arkansas, and his success in professional leagues have made him a basketball New York City legend. Continuing his passion for basketball Kareem is currently an assistant coach at St.Rays Highschool going strong.
When Mike Anderson, his former coach at Arkansas, became the head coach at St. John’s University, Reid offered to help in any way possible. His deep ties to New York City basketball made him an invaluable resource for recruiting and connecting with local talent.
Reid’s impact on the game is felt in both the professional and streetball worlds. From leading St. Raymond’s to championships, to dominating at Rucker Park, to excelling in the NBDL and ABA, Kareem Reid’s story is one of perseverance and greatness.
Kareem “The Best Kept Secret” Reid’s journey from the Bronx to basketball stardom is a story of hard work, resilience, and love for the game. Whether he was leading St. Raymond’s to state championships, thrilling crowds at Rucker Park, or winning titles in professional leagues, Reid left a lasting legacy. His name will forever be remembered in the annals of New York City basketball history.
Thank you for reading another State article peace and blessings let’s keep it New York.