In a prestigious announcement, it has been revealed that Geno Auriemma and Phil Martelli are the standout recipients of this year’s highly esteemed Joe Lapchick Character Award. Joining these two distinguished coaches in receiving this accolade are the esteemed men’s basketball referee, Gene Steratore, and the former Fordham athletic director, Frank McLaughlin.
Auriemma, renowned as the most successful coach in the history of women’s basketball, has led the University of Connecticut to an incredible 11 national championships. Over the course of his illustrious 40-year tenure at the university, he has amassed an unparalleled record of 1,239 victories, setting a new NCAA benchmark. Additionally, under Auriemma’s guidance, the UConn women’s basketball program boasts a flawless 100% graduation rate among its four-year players, emphasizing the coach’s dedication to both on-court success and academic excellence.
With a longstanding professional relationship dating back to their days at Bishop Kenrick High School, Auriemma and Martelli share a special bond. Martelli, who served as the head coach of Saint Joseph’s for 24 seasons, achieved notable success by leading the Hawks to seven NCAA Tournament appearances. Notably, his 2004 squad made an impressive run to the Elite Eight after completing a perfect regular season. Martelli, recognized as the AP Coach of the Year, accumulated a total of 444 victories during his esteemed coaching career.
Steratore, a prominent Division I men’s basketball official from 1997 to 2018, officiated games in prestigious conferences such as the Big East, Big Ten, and Atlantic 10. Beyond his contributions on the court, Steratore also provided expert analysis during CBS broadcasts of the NCAA Tournament, showcasing his deep understanding of the game. His expertise extended to the NFL, where he officiated games for 15 seasons, further solidifying his reputation as a highly respected official in both collegiate and professional sports.
McLaughlin, who held the position of Fordham’s athletic director from 1985 to 2012, later assumed the role of associate vice president of student affairs for athletic alumni relations and external affairs, earning the title of athletic director emeritus upon his retirement in 2023. Prior to his administrative roles, McLaughlin enjoyed a successful coaching career, notably leading the Harvard men’s basketball team to a commendable 15-9 record in his final year at the helm.
This year marks the 17th edition of the Joe Lapchick Character Award, presented annually to individuals who embody the exemplary character traits exemplified by Lapchick during his coaching career at St. John’s University and with the New York Knicks. The quartet of outstanding honorees will be celebrated at a special luncheon scheduled for September 19 in New York City. Stay updated on all the latest poll alerts and AP Top 25 news throughout the college basketball season by signing
