Luke McConnell Named Head Coach of Saint Francis Men’s Basketball

"I am truly honored and humbled to be named the head coach at Saint Francis," said McConnell. "I would not be here without Rob Krimmel and his belief in me. I am so grateful to have worked under one of the best coaches in the country. I want to thank President Fr. Malachi Van Tassell, T.O.R. Ph.D. D., Vice President for Student Development Dr. Frank Montecalvo, and Director of Athletics Jim Brazill for this tremendous opportunity. I look forward to leading our student-athletes and representing this university and our great community." 

Saint Francis University has officially promoted Luke  McConnell to head coach of the men’s basketball team after a history-making season as associate head coach. McConnell helped guide the Red Flash to their first NEC Tournament title and  NCAA Tournament appearance in 34 years, and now he takes the reins as the program’s 21st  head coach. 

Director of Athletics Jim Brazill called McConnell’s passion and dedication “a winning combination,” noting his deep ties to the university—both as a Saint Francis alum and as part of a legendary coaching family. 

This promotion is more than symbolic. McConnell has played nearly every role in the program: football player, grad assistant, basketball ops, assistant coach, and most recently, associate head coach. His coaching resume is impressive, including mentoring numerous award-winning players and helping develop student-athletes on and off the court. 

And yes, the McConnell name runs deep at SFU—Luke’s father, Tom McConnell, was head coach of the Red Flash from 1992–99. Luke now becomes one of only seven coaches in NCAA  history to follow their father as head coach at the same school. 

With a strong legacy and a fresh championship under his belt, McConnell is ready to lead the next chapter of Red Flash basketball.

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