Published: June 29, 2009 10:59 pm      

BASKETBALL: Jonny Flynn given key to Niagara Falls

NIAGARA FALLS — In the coming weeks, you may have to pardon the dust at the Flynn residence. There could be a bit of remodeling happening on Garden Avenue.

“I’ve been building shelves for him for years and it looks like I’m going to have to build some more,” Rev. William Flynn said with a chuckle as he carried an armload of proclamations and gifts his son Jonny Flynn was presented with Monday evening at the City of Niagara Falls’ Council Meeting.

Flynn, the former Niagara Falls High School and Syracuse University standout, was drafted sixth overall by the Minnesota Timberwolves in Thursday’s NBA Draft and less than a week later returned to a hero’s welcome in his hometown. Included in the hoopla was the presentation of a key to the city.

“This is easily one of my proudest moments as mayor of Niagara Falls,” Mayor Paul Dyster told the standing-room-only crowd estimated at more than 300.

Niagara County legislator Renae Kimble proclaimed Monday as Jonny Flynn Day in the county before bestowing large expectations on the two-time Niagara Gazette Player of Year.

“We’re expecting you to be a starting point guard … and lead the Timberwolves to the NBA championship,” she said as the crowd roared in excitement.

Flynn also received a proclamation from state assemblywoman Francine DelMonte and a commemorative copy of last Friday’s Niagara Gazette from publisher Peter Mio.

“I want to thank everyone in Niagara Falls for always having my back,” Flynn said. “I have a whole city behind me — all the way from the basketball gurus to the people that couldn’t pick out LeBron James in a crowd. I love you Niagara Falls.”

The crowd showed their love with a handful of standing ovations. Among several former NFHS coaches and teammates in attendance was 2006 graduate Anthony Marshall.

“I wanted to come and show my love and support for Jonny,” he said, while reminiscing about an alley-oop he threw Flynn from halfcourt during a win over Kenmore West. “I always knew he was going to be really good, but to get this far is special. I’m proud of him and his family. And I know he’s only going to get better.”

Contact reporter Nate Beutel at 282-2311, ext. 2262.