St. John’s was “home” to Lou Carnesecca. And perhaps this is why he was able to become what he was for his players. His legacy remains forever immortalized in a statue that stands in the arena’s lobby at the university. And the memories of the basketball legend lie in the hearts of the people. Shockwaves were sent through the basketball world when it was announced that the basketball legend had taken his last breath at the age of 99.

Heartbroken at the news, a former NBA player who was coached by the legend sent his condolences. “My Coach! Praying for your Family! What a Life! What a Game Changer! Thank you for Everything! I Love You! I’m 4ever Grateful! #WellDone #StJohn’s #MadeMeBetter”, Mark Jackson wrote on his X handle.

The former point guard has fond memories of Carnesecca, who attended St. John’s from 1983 to 1987. Before the historic coaching period in St. John’s, he had a short stint of five years in the ’60s, he was also the Head Coach and a General manager for the New York Nets in the ABA from 1970 to 73. Carnesecca returned to St. John’s in 1973 as a coach again. The late legend was largely responsible for guiding the Red Storm team, which had an impressive record of making 18 NCAA Tournament appearances. It was in 1985 when the coach saw the team make a Final Four appearance and have a 30-win season. The same success was seen the following year as well.

The team had a 31-4 record, led by Jackson, Chris Mullin, Walter Berry, and Bill Wennington. Despite great efforts, the team lost to Georgetown. Some might remember him for his sweaters, which were his lucky charm, but it’s his 526-200 record that St. John remembers. For 24 years of his remarkable life, Carnesecca coached the team.

After witnessing the historic legacy of the legend, it was tough for everyone to accept the truth. Coach George Karl took to X and wrote, “Cheers to Lou Carnesecca. Coach Carnesecca was a great basketball person. I always loved his spirit and tenacity.” Media giants who over the years recorded Carnesecca’s frustrated hand movements due to a missed shot and euphoric gestures at a win were deeply shaken by the move.

Broadcaster John Fanta, Ed Cooley, and more reminisced about the basketball coaching legend 

In his honor, Fox Sports’ broadcaster, John Fanta, took to X to write, “Lou Carnesecca has passed away at the age of 99. You cannot tell the story of college basketball — of the Big East — of NYC hoops — without Looie, who was St. John’s. 526 wins in 24 years. Never had a losing season. 1985 Final Four. 2-time National COTY. All-time personality.”

Just 35 days from now, the basketball legend Lou Carnesecca would have celebrated his 100th birthday. The legendary coach was honored with the Big East Coach of the Year award three times. He was also named the National Coach of the Year 2 times. 

Georgetown head basketball coach Ed Cooley also took to X to reflect on the late legend and wrote, “Sending condolences from our Hoya Family to those nearest and dearest to Coach Lou Carnesecca and St. John’s Basketball. One of the pioneers of the BIG EAST Conference – he is synonymous with this great league and will be truly missed by all in the basketball world.” 

. Carnesecca was inducted into the Hall of Fame in 1992. Joining Fanta and Cooley was sports anchor Bruce Beck, who wrote, “With tears in my eyes – I say goodbye to Lou Carnesecca. 99 years of living life to its fullest. What a coach. What a man. What a friend. He was like a 2nd father to me. I was so honored to host his TV show & so blessed to have him in my life. RIP Louie.” Carnesecca leaves behind his wife Mary, who is 76-years-old and his devoted family.