Glens Falls to retire Joseph Girard III's jersey with special ceremony

GLENS FALLS, N.Y. (NEWS10) — Glens Falls High School will retire the basketball jersey of Joseph Girard III, the district announced on Friday. Girard III, who repped #11, will be the second player in Glens Falls history to have their jersey retired.

During his Glens Falls High School basketball career, Girard III scored a total of 4,763 points, including 688 three-point shots, making him New York State's All-time Leading Scorer. He was also designated as New York State's Mr. Basketball in 2019 and a Gatorade Player of the Year in 2018 and 2019.

Girard III went on to play for both Syracuse University and Clemson University, scoring a total of 2,196 points. He now plays professionally in Europe.

"We are pleased to let it be known that #11 will never be worn again in GF Boy’s Basketball," said Shane Jones, Glens Falls athletic director, in a press release. "This honor recognizes his extraordinary impact on our program and community. Joseph’s contributions are immeasurable, and his legacy of excellence, leadership, and dedication will forever be a part of our history.

The school will hold a ceremony on Feb. 14 for the jersey retirement. Girard III plans to return to Glens Falls for the occasion.

"Having my jersey retired at my high school is a great honor,” said Girard III. “This gym, this community, and these fans were the start of everything for me. I hope my story inspires others to work hard and dream big!"

The ceremony will take place at the high school on Feb. 14 following the Boy's Junior Varsity Basketball game against South Glens Falls, which begins at 5:30 p.m. Glens Falls High School invites the entire community to attend.

"Joseph’s jersey will be enshrined in our gym ensuring his legacy will live on forever!" Jones said.