Personal Details
| Attribute | Details |
|---|---|
| Full Name | Luigi P. Carnesecca |
| Known As | Looie |
| Date of Birth | January 5, 1925 |
| Date of Death | November 30, 2024 |
| Age | 99 years |
| Birthplace | Manhattan, New York |
| Education | St. John’s University (1950) |
| Profession | Basketball Coach |
| Notable Role | St. John’s University Head Coach |
Career Statistics
| Category | Record |
|---|---|
| Overall Record at St. John’s | 526-200 |
| NCAA Tournament Appearances | 18 |
| NIT Appearances | 6 |
| Final Four Appearances | 1 (1985) |
| 20-Win Seasons | 18 |
| Big East Coach of the Year | 3 times |
Early Life and Education
Born Luigi Carnesecca on January 5, 1925, in Manhattan to Italian immigrants Alfredo and Adele, who operated a delicatessen in East Harlem. Despite being a self-admitted poor player during his time at St. Ann’s Academy, he developed a passion for coaching while working with local youth. After serving in the Coast Guard during World War II, he enrolled at St. John’s University, where he played junior varsity basketball and baseball.
Professional Journey
Early Coaching Career
After graduating in 1950, Carnesecca began his coaching career at St. Ann’s Academy, building the program into a powerhouse and winning two CHSAA titles. In 1958, he joined St. John’s as an assistant under his mentor Joe Lapchick, helping secure two NIT titles in 1959 and 1965.
St. John’s Head Coach (1965-1970)
Appointed as the 12th head coach in St. John’s history following Lapchick’s retirement. His first tenure included:
- NCAA Tournament regional semifinals in 1967 and 1969
- NIT Championship game appearance in 1970
- Consistent winning seasons
ABA Years (1970-1973)
Led the New York Nets of the American Basketball Association:
- Made playoffs all three seasons
- Reached ABA Finals in 1972
- Compiled 114-138 record
Return to St. John’s (1973-1992)
Marked the most successful period of his career:
- 18 NCAA Tournament appearances
- 1985 Final Four appearance
- Two Big East titles (1983, 1986)
- Five regular-season conference championships
- Never had a losing season
Legacy and Impact
Notable Players Coached
Developed over 40 NBA Draft picks including:
- Chris Mullin
- Mark Jackson
- Walter Berry
- Bill Wennington
- Malik Sealy
Awards and Recognition
- Naismith Memorial Basketball Hall of Fame (1992)
- National Coach of the Year (1983, 1985)
- Big East Coach of the Year (3 times)
- Metropolitan Coach of the Year (6 times)
Personal Life
Married to Mary for 73 years, father to daughter Enes, and grandfather to Ieva. Known for his:
- Signature colorful sweaters
- Quick wit and warmth
- Deep connection to St. John’s
- Dedication to players’ development
Lou Carnesecca passed away on November 30, 2024, surrounded by family, just weeks shy of his 100th birthday. His legacy lives on through Carnesecca Arena at St. John’s University, where his statue stands as a testament to his enduring impact on college basketball.
