 While attending New York University, Joseph played basketball for two seasons on the NYU varsity (1910–1911).After graduating from NYU, Joseph continued to play basketball with the Mohegans - reportedly one of the top amateur teams in New York City - where he helped the squad defeat some of the top teams of the era, including Seton Hall University and Williams College.A burglary in Joseph's home made the news in the 1930s when two of his wife Henrietta's diamond rings were stolen from their Bronx residence.