Assembly Resolution No. 1275
BY: M. of A. Braunstein
HONORING Coach Ron Naclerio upon the occasion of
becoming the winningest boys high school basketball
coach in New York State history, and for his
distinguished service and enduring dedication to the
youth of the State of New York
WHEREAS, It is the custom of this Legislative Body to recognize
individuals whose professional achievements and personal dedication have
brought distinction and honor to the people of the State of New York;
and
WHEREAS, Ron Naclerio has long been regarded as a legendary figure
in high school basketball, particularly within the Borough of Queens, a
region renowned for its rich basketball tradition; and
WHEREAS, On Friday, January 30, 2026, Ron Naclerio achieved a
historic milestone by becoming the winningest boys high school
basketball coach in New York State history, securing his 973rd career
victory as head coach of Benjamin N. Cardozo High School in Bayside with
a decisive 69-46 win over Julia Richman High School of Manhattan; and
WHEREAS, This remarkable achievement surpassed the previous record
held by another distinguished Queens coach, further cementing Ron
Naclerio's place in New York's storied basketball legacy; and
WHEREAS, Ron Naclerio's extraordinary 51-year coaching career has
been defined by unwavering commitment, leadership, and excellence, all
of which have been devoted to the student-athletes of Benjamin N.
Cardozo High School; and
WHEREAS, Prior to his coaching career, Ron Naclerio demonstrated his
athletic talents as a professional baseball player within the Chicago
White Sox organization until his playing career was curtailed by injury;
and
WHEREAS, Over the decades, Ron Naclerio has guided countless young
athletes, including four who advanced to the National Basketball
Association: Duane Causwell, Rafer Alston, Royal Ivey, and James
Southerland; and
WHEREAS, His teams have achieved significant success under his
leadership, including New York City championships in 1999 and 2014, as
well as appearances in the New York State tournament; and
WHEREAS, In recognition of his outstanding contributions to the
sport, Ron Naclerio was inducted into the New York State Basketball Hall
of Fame in 2024 and is slated to be honored by the New York City
Basketball Hall of Fame; and
WHEREAS, Beyond wins and accolades, Ron Naclerio has served as a
mentor, role model, and enduring presence in the lives of generations of
student-athletes, fostering discipline, teamwork, and perseverance both
on and off the court; and
WHEREAS, His lifelong dedication to the game of basketball and to
the development of young people reflects the very best values of sport
and education in the State of New York; now, therefore, be it
RESOLVED, That this Legislative Body pause in its deliberations to
honor and commend Ron Naclerio upon the occasion of becoming the
winningest boys high school basketball coach in New York State history,
recognizing his extraordinary career and lasting impact on student
athletes and the broader community; and be it further
RESOLVED, That a copy of this Resolution, suitably engrossed, be
transmitted to Coach Ron Naclerio.
