In a heartfelt tribute to the late St. John’s coaching legend Lou Carnesecca, this weekend marks a special moment in college basketball history. As coaches across the Big East don sweaters, they not only honor Carnesecca’s memory but also celebrate his enduring legacy on and off the court.

Join the Celebration of a Coaching Icon

A Timeless Fashion Statement

The decision to wear sweaters instead of traditional game-day attire is more than just a fashion choice; it symbolizes a deep respect for one of the most revered figures in college basketball. Lou Carnesecca, who passed away last November, was known for his iconic wardrobe, particularly the sweater that became synonymous with his success. This weekend, coaches across the Big East will don similar sweaters as a tribute to Carnesecca’s 100th birthday.Carnesecca’s sweater was more than just an accessory; it became a symbol of his leadership and resilience. During the 1985 season, he wore a brown sweater with a striking red and blue “V” pattern during a remarkable 19-game winning streak. That season culminated in St. John’s reaching the Final Four for the second time in program history. Even in defeat, the sweater left an indelible mark on basketball lore when Georgetown’s John Thompson famously revealed a shirt mimicking Carnesecca’s design during their matchup at Madison Square Garden.

A Legacy Beyond Fashion

While the sweater may have defined Carnesecca’s image, his true legacy lies in his unparalleled contributions to the sport. Over 24 years at St. John’s, Carnesecca compiled an impressive record of 526-200 and led the Red Storm to the NCAA Tournament 18 times. His impact extended far beyond wins and losses, shaping countless lives through his mentorship and wisdom. More than three decades after his retirement, Carnesecca remains the winningest coach in St. John’s history, a testament to his lasting influence.Coaches today recognize that Carnesecca’s legacy is about more than just the games won or the championships earned. It’s about the values he instilled in his players and the community he built around the sport. By wearing sweaters this weekend, these coaches are paying homage not just to Carnesecca’s style but to the principles he embodied—dedication, passion, and integrity.

A Week of Tribute Games

This weekend’s games carry added significance as part of the ongoing celebration of Carnesecca’s life and career. Ten of the Big East’s 11 men’s basketball programs will take to the court between Friday and Sunday, with Seton Hall taking a break from the action. Each game serves as a reminder of Carnesecca’s impact on the conference and the sport as a whole.St. John’s, Carnesecca’s former school, will host Butler on Saturday, adding an extra layer of emotion to the matchup. The teams will compete not just for victory but to honor the man who shaped so much of their basketball heritage. Fans can expect a poignant atmosphere, with additional tributes likely to unfold throughout the game.

The Sweater’s Symbolic Return

The choice to wear pins featuring “Lou” in bold letters, styled after Carnesecca’s famous sweater, adds another layer of reverence to the weekend’s events. These pins serve as a constant reminder of the coach’s presence, even in his absence. Dan Leibovitz, the Big East’s senior associate commissioner for men’s basketball, emphasized that the conference organized this tribute to celebrate Carnesecca’s extraordinary career and the life he lived.Last December, St. John’s coach Rick Pitino paid tribute by wearing a custom-tailored sweater inspired by Carnesecca’s design during a game against Kansas State. Afterward, he placed the sweater on the midcourt logo at Carnesecca Arena, a powerful gesture that resonated deeply with fans and players alike. This weekend’s games continue that tradition, ensuring Carnesecca’s memory remains alive in the hearts of all who love the game.