The world of college basketball mourns the loss of a true icon, Lou Carnesecca, the legendary coach of St. John's men's basketball team. Carnesecca, whose infectious enthusiasm and trademark sweater vests became synonymous with St. John's basketball, passed away on Saturday, just shy of his 100th birthday. The university announced his passing on Sunday evening.

Carnesecca's coaching career at St. John's spanned 24 seasons across two separate tenures. He guided the Red Storm to 18 seasons with 20 or more wins and an impressive 18 appearances in the NCAA Tournament. His legacy includes mentoring numerous basketball stars, including Chris Mullin, Bill Wennington, Mark Jackson, and Walter Berry. The 1984-85 team, featuring this quartet of talent, achieved a remarkable 31-win season, culminating in a Final Four appearance before falling to Georgetown.

Carnesecca's first stint as head coach began in the 1965-66 season, taking the reins from Joe Lapchick. He briefly departed to coach the New York Nets in the ABA before returning to St. John's, then known as the Redmen, replacing Frank Mulzoff. Under his guidance, the program flourished, capturing the NIT Championship in 1989. His remarkable contributions to the sport were recognized with his induction into the Basketball Hall of Fame in 1992, the same year he retired.

Carnesecca's impressive coaching record stands at 526-200. He earned numerous accolades throughout his career, including three Big East Coach of the Year awards and two U.S. Basketball Writers Association Coach of the Year honors. Beyond his on-court achievements, Carnesecca was beloved for his warmth, wit, and genuine connection with the St. John's community. The university's statement noted that he passed away surrounded by his family, including his wife of 73 years, Mary, his daughter Enes, and granddaughter Ieva.