Wayne McKoy, a celebrated St. John’s basketball alumnus, died on August 18, 2024, at the age of 68. Tributes poured in from former teammates, fans, and community leaders who remembered his fierce competitiveness and gentle demeanor.
He spent four seasons under the tutelage of Hall of Fame coach Lou Carnesecca, during which he amassed 1,536 points, 824 rebounds and 164 blocked shots — ranking 13th, 10th and 5th respectively in the school’s all‑time lists.
McKoy’s impact was felt early; as a sophomore he helped the team pull off a stunning NCAA Tournament upset over Duke, and later contributed to the program’s first BIG EAST regular‑season title in his junior year.
A journey beyond the college court
After being selected 63rd overall by the New York Knicks in the 1981 draft, he never laced up an NBA jersey but took his talent overseas, spending three seasons playing professionally in Spain before returning to the States.
His daughter, Shanna Soares, recalled a father who was both kind and encouraging, often sharing advice and traveling with the family, and who taught her and his grandson the fundamentals of the game that shaped their own ambitions.
Friends and admirers from Belize to Spain posted messages of gratitude, citing his mentorship and the example he set for young athletes who dreamed of wearing a St. John’s jersey.
A lasting imprint
Even as the basketball world mourns, McKoy’s legacy endures in the courts where he taught youth players, in the records he still holds, and in the hearts of those who saw in him a model of perseverance and humility.