If there is a silver lining to Mayor Giuliani’s revelation of prostate cancer, Brendan Malone, the Knicks’ assistant coach, says it creates tremendous awareness among late-middle-age men.

Malone was diagnosed with prostate cancer more than two years ago and had surgery March 16, 1998. “It’s great in a bad way when celebrities like Joe Torre and Mayor Giuliani bring men aware of what prostrate cancer is all about,” Malone said. “When I had my operation, it made [Knick assistant] Don Chaney go out and get [tested] and I can’t tell you how many other people who knew me told me the same thing. Early detection is paramount importance.”

Malone is doing very well, but gets a blood test every month to make sure he’s still winning the war. “You’re never over it, you manage it,” said Malone.