Cardozo head coach Ron Naclerio wins 973rd game to set New York record

Ron Naclerio has etched his name in the New York high school basketball history books once again. The veteran head coach of the boy’s basketball program at Benjamin N. Cardozo High School in Queens secured his 973rd victory with a 69-46 win over Julia Richman, solidifying his position as the winningest high school coach in New York state history.

At 68 years old, Naclerio surpasses the legendary Jack Curran of Archbishop Molloy, who held the previous record of 972 career wins over his illustrious five-decade coaching career. Not only does Naclerio hold the title for the winningest high school coach in New York state, but he also made history by becoming the most successful head coach in New York City basketball history across all levels of play, including the NBA.

Before the milestone victory on Friday, Naclerio sensed that something special was in the air. He described the atmosphere as a “Cardozo basketball lovefest,” despite the game being an away fixture. The presence of former players and media members in the crowd signaled the significance of the moment for Naclerio.

The game itself saw Cardozo take a commanding lead early on, allowing Naclerio to rotate all of his players and savor the win. Reflecting on the achievement, Naclerio humorously remarked, “At halftime I realized unless an atomic bomb hit the place, 16 basketball minutes would put me on a basketball Mount Rushmore myself.”

With just a minute left in the game, the weight of standing alone in New York City basketball history began to sink in for Naclerio. He acknowledged the honor of being mentioned in the same breath as legendary Knicks coach Red Holzman, expressing his gratitude for the recognition.

Following the historic win, Naclerio received an outpouring of congratulations from prominent figures in the NYC basketball community, including Rick Pitino, Kenny Anderson, and Kenny Smith. The milestone achievement comes after Naclerio faced allegations of improper recruiting that resulted in a two-game suspension in December.

Despite his 51-year tenure at Cardozo, which included two city titles and the development of four NBA players, Naclerio believes he still has more to offer. He sees himself in the “fourth quarter” of his coaching career, unsure of whether he is at the beginning, middle, or end of this stage. However, Naclerio remains determined to continue his coaching journey until the day he decides to hang up his whistle.

The legacy of Ron Naclerio as a coaching icon in New York high school basketball is secure, and his passion for the game continues to drive him towards further success on the court.