NYC Gazette

St. John's University is mourning the loss of Luigi "Lou" P. Carnesecca, who passed away at the age of 99 on November 30, just weeks before his 100th birthday. Carnesecca was a celebrated figure in college basketball and a beloved member of the St. John's community.

Rev. Brian J. Shanley, O.P., President of St. John's University, remarked on Carnesecca's character and contributions: "Throughout his long life, Coach Carnesecca represented St. John’s with savvy, humility, smarts, tenacity, wit, integrity, and grace." He added that Carnesecca was a significant public face for the university.

Rick Pitino, current Men's Basketball Head Coach at St. John's, expressed his sorrow: "We lost an iconic St. John’s man," he said. "His coaching expertise was as good as anyone in basketball."

Carnesecca's career included being inducted into both the Naismith Memorial Basketball Hall of Fame and the New York City Basketball Hall of Fame in the early 1990s. He led St. John's to numerous victories over his 24-season tenure as head coach from 1965 to 1992.

Ed Kull ’05MBA commented on Carnesecca's impact: “He embodied everything that is great about this University, this city, and the sport of basketball.”

The BIG EAST Conference Commissioner Val Ackerman acknowledged his achievements: “The BIG EAST Conference is deeply saddened by the passing of Lou Carnesecca... His basketball accomplishments abound.”

Carnesecca remained active at St. John's after retiring from coaching in 1992 by serving as a Special Assistant to then-President Rev. Donald J. Harrington.

William J. Janetschek ’84CBA reflected on Carnesecca's influence: “Never has one man had such a positive impact on so many people.”

In addition to his professional accomplishments, Coach Carnesecca was known for his devotion to family and faith.

Visitation will be held on December 5 at Thomas F. Dalton Funeral Homes in New Hyde Park, NY with a funeral Mass scheduled for December 6 at St. Thomas More Church at St John’s University.