Lou Carnesecca, the iconic coach known for his distinctive raspy voice and signature sweater, passed away on Saturday at the age of 99, according to St. John’s University. Recognized as a foundational figure in the Big East Conference, he played a crucial role in elevating the league’s status through his dynamic coaching and the success of his teams.
During his two tenures as head coach from 1965 to 1970, and from 1973 to 1992, Carnesecca amassed an impressive record of 526 wins and 200 losses, leading St. John’s to 18 NCAA Tournament appearances. His notable achievements include guiding the Redmen to the 1985 Final Four and reaching the Elite Eight in both 1979 and 1991. Under his leadership, the team secured Big East championships in 1983 and 1986 alongside a National Invitation Tournament (NIT) title in 1989. Remarkably, he never finished a season with a losing record throughout his 24 years at the helm.
Carnesecca mentored numerous extraordinary talents, including national player of the year Chris Mullin, Walter Berry, and New York Knicks star Mark Jackson, along with All-American Malik Sealy. He was instrumental in shaping the identity of the Big East, collaborating with notable figures in college basketball like Dave Gavitt and coaches from Georgetown, Villanova, Syracuse, and more, fostering a vibrant basketball culture.
Recognized as a two-time National Coach of the Year, Carnesecca’s legacy was cemented with his induction into the Naismith Memorial Hall of Fame in 1992. Until the very end of his life, he remained a fixture at St. John’s games, attending events at the arena that bears his name. His connection to the university dates back to his days as a student-athlete, having played baseball during the 1949 season that showcased the team at the College World Series.
Big East commissioner Val Ackerman expressed heartfelt sentiments, stating that Carnesecca’s influence reached beyond basketball, highlighting his toughness and resilience—qualities that mirrored those of the conference he helped to establish. His belief in basketball’s potential to uplift universities is a cornerstone of the Big East’s identity, making him an invaluable figure in the realm of college sports. Ackerman described Carnesecca as a tactical genius and a mentor whose legacy will undoubtedly endure within St. John’s, the Big East, and the landscape of college basketball as a whole.
Carnesecca’s remarkable journey serves as a reminder of the powerful impact one individual can have on a sport, a conference, and countless young athletes’ lives. His contributions will be celebrated and remembered by many for generations to come.