NEW YORK — Lou Carneseccathe longtime coach of St. John’s basketball and an icon of New York sports has died at the age of 99.
He was a beloved coach who made St. John’s basketball a national treasure.
Carnesecca’s impact on St. John’s basketball
In New York, legends are often larger than life, but every now and then one comes along whose impact is quieter but deeper.
Carnesecca grew up in Queens and never strayed far from home. He dedicated his life to coaching his alma mater.
For nearly three decades, Carnesecca stood on the sidelines in his famous jerseys, coaching not just the game but a philosophy: hard work, humility and heart.
From his first day as St. John’s head coach in 1965, his influence extended beyond the hardwood. Under his leadership, St. John’s basketball was more than just a team; they were a symbol of New York pride.
He was never the tallest man in the room, but he was a giant. His teams were a reflection of their coach: sloppy, disciplined winners.
Carnesecca’s career was filled with more than 500 victories. He’s a Hall of Fame coach who took St. John’s to the Final Four, and in his 24 years there he never had a losing season.
He was active at St. John’s until 2023 The introduction of Rick Pitino as the new head coach. The school dedicated a statue to him, and in 2004 the arena on St. John’s campus was renamed Carnesecca Arena.
St. John’s has not released a statement at this time.
Carnesecca died just over a month before what would have been his 100th birthday.
Steve Overmyer
