St. John’s Honors Legendary Coach Lou Carnesecca at Funeral

The Hall of Fame coach, who passed away at 99, was remembered for his profound impact on basketball and the lives of generations of players.

Lou Carnesecca, St. John’s iconic basketball coach, was celebrated at a funeral Mass attended by over 400 people, including former players, rival coaches, and school officials.
Carnesecca, who coached St. John’s from 1965 to 1992, led the team to 526 wins and a Final Four appearance in 1985, cementing his legacy in college basketball and New York sports history.
Speakers emphasized his influence beyond basketball, describing him as a mentor and father figure who taught life lessons and provided unwavering support to his players.
Generations of athletes, including those he never coached, credited Carnesecca for shaping St. John’s culture and inspiring them to succeed on and off the court.
Known for his warmth, humor, and humility, Carnesecca remained a beloved presence at St. John’s long after retiring, symbolizing the spirit of the program and its community.