Name: Walt “Clyde” Frazier
Age: 65
Neighborhood: Harlem
Occupation: Knicks TV announcer for MSG Network; Hall of Fame basketball player; author of the recently re-issued Rockin’ Steady: A Guide to Basketball and Cool. He’ll be calling the Knicks/Lakers game tonight on MSG Network.
Who’s your favorite New Yorker, living or dead, real or fictional?
The Statue of Liberty.
What’s the best meal you’ve eaten in New York?
The grilled salmon and grilled vegetables at Bryant Park Grill. Everything is so fresh and they have terrific service.
In one sentence, what do you actually do all day in your job?
Inform and enlighten basketball fans. I enjoy the teaching aspect of the game: how players get open, how plays develop, and I like to share that with viewers.
What was your first job in New York?
Guard for the New York Knicks.
What’s the last thing you saw on Broadway?
Memphis. It reminded me of my youth, all of the terrific music, going to dances…
Do you give money to panhandlers?
I do.
What’s your drink?
White wine. I like it because I could drink it and was still able to perform in practice the next day.
How often do you prepare your own meals?
Every day. I make a lot of fish — swordfish and salmon steaks, usually with fresh vegetables — carrots, broccoli, salad. I’m a healthy eater.
What’s your favorite medication?
Carrot and celery juice.
What’s hanging above your sofa?
Plaques and awards. I’m particularly proud of the of the framed “50 Greatest Players of All-Time” piece that’s on my wall. It’s signed by all the players, including me!
How much is too much to spend on a haircut?
$200.
When’s bedtime?
Midnight. Sometimes I’ll stay up later if I don’t have anything to do in the morning. I’ll stay up and do yoga, right in bed.
Which do you prefer, the old Times Square or the new Times Square?
New Times Square. I like that you can sit outside now and hang out, watch the traffic. I’ve always been a fan of Times Square #&8212 I remember when I was a rookie with the Knicks, Willis Reed took me down to Times Square in his convertible, just seeing all the lights was so exciting. I’ve been a fan ever since.
What do you think of Donald Trump?
Intriguing and Innovative. I’ve met Donald at Knicks games many times…when I used to call the radio games for the Knicks, he sat right next to me, so I’ve known him for a long time.
What do you hate most about living in New York?
The traffic. I do drive occasionally, the last time was in October, the Knicks had a preseason game up there, and I rented a car and drove up. Sometimes it’s relaxing to be on the open road. I’ll also rent a car to go shopping in New Jersey once in awhile, when I’m looking to buy things for my bed and breakfast in St. Croix.
Who is your mortal enemy?
Father Time …
When’s the last time you drove a car?
A few months ago (see above.).
How has the Wall Street crash affected you?
I’ve been more conservative. I don’t spend as much anymore on shoes and suits.
Times, Post, or Daily News?
I read the sports pages of all three.
Where do you go to be alone?
Home.
What makes someone a New Yorker?
Attitude, pride, and perseverance.
