Gerald Govan

Gerald Govan (born January 2, 1942) is a retired American professional basketball player. He played nine seasons in the American Basketball Association (ABA), from 1967 to 1976.

Born in Jersey City, New Jersey, Govan played high school basketball at Henry Snyder High School. He didn't plan to play college ball, thinking he was destined for a factory job, but his high school coach pushed him to apply.

A 6'10" forward/center from St. Mary of the Plains College in Dodge City, Kansas, Govan spent the year after his 1964 graduation playing pro ball in Italy. He explained, "I tried contacts, but they bothered me. These glasses take away from my aggressiveness. I'm afraid of breaking them because if I do I got to pay for them myself."

Govan, the father of twin daughters, returned to Jersey City after his playing career ended and eventually worked as a probation officer for 25 years. He occasionally worked alongside fellow probation officer Bob Hurley, the longtime St. Anthony's High School basketball coach.