PRINGFIELD - Locked out of his job as a forward for the New York Knicks, Marcus Camby made an appearance at William N. DeBerry Magnet School yesterday as part of his Rebound By Reading II Program.

Union-News photo

The former University of Massachusetts All-American was on hand to preach the rewards of an education and to distribute reading awards to several elementary students.

The education major and 1995-96 college basketball Player of the Year told the many children and educators of his dreams to become a teacher and principal.

He also answered many of the children's questions, including several on Chicago Bulls star Michael Jordan, and also identified his favorite book as "Of Mice and Men" by John Steinbeck.

"I started this program at a couple schools in Hartford and wanted to branch out," Camby said. "Hopefully I can do another couple of schools here in Springfield and get things going."

Camby said he was surprised by the reception he got, considering he hasn't been active in the community since being the second overall pick by the NBA's Toronto Raptors in the 1996 entry draft.

He also acknowledged the positive nature of the event, in contrast to all the negative feelings surrounding the NBA lockout. "That's why I targeted K-6 elementary," Camby said. "Through my foundation (Cambyland), I always target young kids, because they are our future. Just to see the excitement on their faces brings a lot of pleasure to myself."

The program received a ringing endorsement from Mayor Michael A. Albano, who through aide Daniel Lizana, proclaimed Dec. 15, as Rebound By Reading II Day in Springfield.

"From what I heard, it seemed like they were expecting Michael Jordan," Camby joked. "It was good to see that they still recognize me and it feels good to be back in the area."

Camby also addressed the lockout and a situation in which he and several other NBA players were considering going to Europe to play.

"That was just talk," he said. "That was nothing serious. Being in Canada was like being in Europe, so I like it a whole lot better in New York."

Camby was traded to the Knicks June 25 for two players and cash after averaging 30.9 minutes, 13.5 points, 6.8 rebounds and 2.9 blocks over two seasons in Toronto.

He led the league in blocks per game in 1997-98, averaging 3.65 rejections over 63 games.

"We have the right ingredients in New York, now we just have to get on the floor and play," he said. "People just can't judge my game on statistics. Being in New York, people will be able to see me. My specialty is defense, and anytime you can lead the league in a statistical category that's a great accomplishment."

Camby, who said he's all for the New England Patriots possible move to his hometown of Hartford, fully expects the lockout to end, but realizes the danger of the season canceling itself due to the number of games lost.

"I'm keeping my fingers crossed that we can get the season started by the end of January," he said. "If it goes past that, the season will cancel itself out."