The Joe Lapchick Character Award will be presented to Mike Brey, Lisa Bluder, and Ernie Johnson this year. Brey, who coached at Notre Dame for 23 years, is the winningest coach in the school's history. Bluder recently retired after a successful 40-year coaching career, most recently with the Iowa Hawkeyes. Johnson is the longtime host of “Inside the NBA”.

James Jones of Yale will also be honored. The award recognizes individuals who embody the character traits of Joe Lapchick, a former coach at St. John's and the New York Knicks. It acknowledges their contributions to basketball and sportsmanship. These recipients have all demonstrated exceptional integrity and commitment throughout their careers.

This award is a testament to their lasting impact on the sport and their dedication to ethical conduct. The honorees will be celebrated at a luncheon in New York on September 18. This recognition arrives as the college basketball season is winding down and the NBA playoffs are approaching.

This year's recipients have all left a lasting mark on the game. Brey and Bluder built successful programs, while Johnson has become a beloved figure in sports broadcasting. The Lapchick Award's focus on character makes it a unique and respected honor within the basketball community. These individuals serve as examples for future generations.