Senate Resolution No. 220

BY: Senator ADDABBO

MOURNING the death of Lou Carnesecca,
distinguished citizen and devoted member of his
community

WHEREAS, A legendary coach and ambassador for the sport of
basketball, Lou Carnesecca passed away on Saturday, November 30, 2024,
leaving behind a remarkable legacy that will be forever remembered by
the St. John's University community, the basketball world, and all those
whose lives he touched throughout his illustrious career; and

WHEREAS, Lou Carnesecca devoted his life to the game of basketball,
impacting the lives of countless student-athletes, fans, and colleagues
throughout his remarkable career, earning him a reputation as one of the
most respected coaches in college basketball history; and

WHEREAS, For more than two decades, Lou Carnesecca served as Head
Coach of the St. John's University Men's Basketball Team, from 1965 to
1982 and 1985 to 1992, leading the program to national prominence,
numerous NCAA Tournament appearances, and Big East Conference
championships; and

WHEREAS, Coach Lou Carnesecca's contributions to the growth and
success of college basketball, particularly within the Big East
Conference, are immeasurable, as he helped elevate the stature of St.
John's University and solidified its place as a premier basketball
program; he also contributed to the development of numerous future NBA
stars, most notably Chris Mullin who became one of the greatest players
in the history of the program; and

WHEREAS, A vibrant personality, charismatic coaching style, and
iconic fashion, including his signature colorful sweaters, made Lou
Carnesecca a beloved figure on the sidelines and a cherished part of
basketball culture; and

WHEREAS, Coach Lou Carnesecca was inducted into the Naismith
Memorial Basketball Hall of Fame in 1992, cementing his legacy as one of
the greatest coaches in the history of college basketball; and

WHEREAS, Throughout his life, Coach Lou Carnesecca was a tireless
advocate for the values of sportsmanship, teamwork, and education,
inspiring generations of young people to pursue excellence not only in
sports but also in life, earning the respect and admiration of his
peers, players, and fans alike; and

WHEREAS, Lou Carnesecca's influence extends far beyond basketball,
as he remains a beloved figure in the St. John's community and across
the world of college athletics; his passing leaves a profound void in
the world of college basketball, yet his memory will continue to inspire
future generations, reminding us of the power of sports to shape lives
and build communities; now, therefore, be it

RESOLVED, That this Legislative Body pause in its deliberations to
honor and commemorate the extraordinary life and contributions of Lou

Carnesecca whose legacy as a coach, mentor, and leader will endure for
generations to come; and be it further

RESOLVED, That a copy of this Resolution, suitably engrossed, be
transmitted to the family of Lou Carnesecca, extending deepest sympathy
and gratitude for his lifelong commitment to the game of basketball, the
students he mentored, and the lasting impact he had on St. John's
University, the Big East Conference, and the broader basketball
community.