[CHICAGO, IL, USA] The National Hellenic Invitational Basketball Tournament in late 2024 lost another of its bright lights with the passing of NHIBT Hall of Famer George Demos. The committee deeply mourns his passing as George was beloved by all and could light up a meeting or a scoreboard lightning quick with his wide smile, lively conversational style, merry demeanor, and pinpoint long-range accuracy.
George receiving a trophy in a 1990’s tournament
A graduate of Sullivan H.S. on Chicago’s far north side in the late 1960’s, George was an absolute phenom his senior season, averaging 39 points per game and earning top All-City honors. In an era before the three-point line, George routinely launched 20 to 24-foot long-range shots and piled up points at a rapid pace. Glance at the crowd for a minute and boom, George just added another 8 points. Had the three-point line been in effect, he likely would have averaged 45 his senior year. George went on to star at the University of Illinois Chicago when it was located at Navy Pier.
George made many headlines back in the day
After college, George worked as a Chicago Park District facilities supervisor for 20 years. He also became a prolific referee, working his way up to officiate major NCAA Division I hoops. Additionally, for four decades all the way through his last days, he served on the NHIBT board and was in charge of officiating assignments.
George played in various recreational leagues well into his 60’s. Very few loved the game or were a more devoted hard-court junkie than George. If there were a game being played, chances are George was behind it or out front. You always got the sense of action with George around.
In the early 2000’s, the NBA tinkered with its rules and the Chicago Bulls brought in George to officiate practices and better acquaint players with rules philosophy. Two of George’s closest friends were former Bulls center Dave Corzine and Joe Ponsetto, former chief of Special Prosecutions for the Illinois Attorney General’s office. Both men were DePaul University basketball stars and local area products who played with George in various tournaments and leagues.
Left photo: Geore posing courtside with civil rights activist Jesse Jackson in the 90’s. Right photo: George along with close friends and Chicago basketball icons Dave Corzine (white shirt) and Joe Ponsetto
In his private life, George was married to first wife Mary Jane and the two produced two children, daughter Nicole and son Tom. George later married Bonnie, a former world-class martial artist, and the two were inseparable throughout the remainder of his days.
A friend and mentor to many, a generous soul and warm human being, George will be sorely missed. Rest in peace, shooter. May your memory be eternal.
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