Brian Higgins: “Today, I rise to honor one of western New York's greatest athletes, Randy Smith. A natural competitor, he came to…”

“Today, I rise to honor one of western New York's greatest athletes, Randy Smith. A natural competitor, he came to Buffalo to play basketball, soccer, and track and field at Buffalo State before he was drafted into the National Basketball Association by the Buffalo Braves in the third round. An underdog from the very start, Randy Smith became the heart and soul of the Braves, holding records and becoming the most valuable player in the 1978 NBA All-Star Game. Randy Smith embodied western New York's hardworking spirit and community pride. He often spent time playing basketball in local parks and visiting city schools, serving as an inspiration and mentor to kids across the community. Randy Smith passed away at the age of 60 in 2009. During a time when our community is still healing from heartbreak and loss, we must continue to keep his legacy alive. I ask my colleagues to join me in honoring Buffalo Braves all-star Randy Smith and his commitment to becoming the good neighbor to the City of Good Neighbors. ____________________”