The Untold Story of Harlem Basketball Star Lamont 'Tip Dog' Thornton's Final Days

Tragedy has befallen the basketball community in New York City as Harlem hoops icon Lamont “Tip Dog” Thornton was fatally stabbed by his son at their NYCHA residence, sparking an outpouring of grief from fans and friends. Thornton, age 58, was attacked in his eighth-floor apartment at Rangel Houses in Washington Heights around 11:45 p.m. on July 20. His son, 24-year-old Lamont Oliphant, reportedly inflicted a singular stab wound to Thornton’s neck, severing an artery.Witnesses recounted the chaos as Thornton left a trail of blood leading from his apartment to the sidewalk, where he was eventually found collapsed by police. Medics rushed him to Harlem Hospital, where he underwent surgery but succumbed to his injuries after nearly two weeks. Oliphant, initially charged with attempted murder, now faces upgraded murder charges. Thornton, a legendary figure at Rucker Park, dedicated his life to mentoring youth and fostering community spirit, leaving behind a profound legacy. (Photo: The Shadow League)