NEW YORK — This year’s Joe Lapchick Character Award will honor four notable figures, highlighted by legendary coaches Geno Auriemma and Phil Martelli.
Joining them among the recipients are seasoned men’s basketball official Gene Steratore and former athletic director at Fordham, Frank McLaughlin. These individuals have demonstrated exemplary character and contributions to the world of basketball throughout their careers.
Auriemma, renowned for his phenomenal tenure at UConn, is the most successful coach in women’s basketball history. His impressive record includes leading the Huskies to 11 national championships and setting an NCAA record with 1,239 victories over 40 years. His leadership extends beyond the basketball court, as evidenced by the Huskies’ perfect graduation rate for players who have completed a full four-year program under his guidance. Auriemma’s relationship with Martelli dates back to his days as an assistant coach for Martelli at Bishop Kenrick High School. Martelli later played a pivotal role in recommending Auriemma for a position at Virginia, which ultimately led to his successful career at UConn beginning in 1986.
Phil Martelli, with a formidable coaching history at Saint Joseph’s, helmed the team for 24 seasons. During his tenure, he guided the Hawks to seven NCAA Tournament appearances. Notably, his 2004 team reached the Elite Eight following an undefeated regular season, although they were halted by Oklahoma State in the East Regional Final. His accomplishments that season earned him the title of AP Coach of the Year, with a career total of 444 wins.
Gene Steratore’s career as a Division I men’s basketball official spanned from 1997 to 2018. Throughout this period, he operated within the Big East, Big Ten, and Atlantic 10 conferences, also contributing to NCAA Tournament Sweet 16 games. Steratore became a familiar voice on CBS broadcasts during March Madness, elucidating the rules, while also maintaining a 15-season career as an NFL official.
Frank McLaughlin dedicated years to Fordham as an athletic director from 1985 until 2012, eventually ascending to an associate vice president role for athletic alumni relations. His retirement came in 2023 following an extended career that began with his tenure as head coach of the Harvard men’s basketball team from 1977-1985.
Celebrating its 17th year, the Joe Lapchick Character Award pays tribute to individuals who epitomize the admirable character traits of Lapchick—an iconic figure who formerly coached at St. John’s and with the New York Knicks. The awardees will be recognized at a ceremonial luncheon slated for September 19th in New York.
