The Big East Conference and its Rich History: An Interview with Rick Patino

🏀The Big East conference was founded in 1979 by Dave Gavitt and has a rich history in college basketball.

🎖️Rick Patino describes Dave Gavitt as a genius and the ultimate politician, for his role in founding and building the Big East.

🏢The Big East conference is known for its larger than life personalities, including coaches like John Thompson, Jim Boeheim, Lou Carnesecca, and Rick Patino himself.

🏀🏠The Big East conference has a strong sense of community and family, which is exemplified by Lou Carnesecca's passion for St. John's and his support for current coaches, including Rick Patino.

🏆The introduction of the three-point shot was a major strategic element for Rick Patino's success in the Big East, both at Providence and later with Louisville.

Who founded the Big East conference?

—The Big East conference was founded in 1979 by Dave Gavitt.

Which coaches were associated with the Big East conference?

—The Big East conference has had legendary coaches such as John Thompson, Jim Boeheim, Lou Carnesecca, and Rick Patino.

What was the impact of the three-point shot in the Big East?

—The introduction of the three-point shot was a major strategic element for Rick Patino's success in the Big East, allowing his teams to use it to their advantage.

What is the sense of community within the Big East conference?

—The Big East conference is known for its strong sense of community and family, with coaches like Lou Carnesecca supporting current coaches and staying involved with the conference.

How has the Big East conference evolved over time?

—The Big East conference has evolved along with the game of basketball, adapting to changes such as the introduction of the three-point shot and continuing to be one of the premier conferences in college basketball.

00:00In this interview with Rick Patino, we explore the history and impact of the Big East conference in college basketball.

04:45Rick Patino shares his thoughts on the role of the Big East during difficult times and the healing power of basketball.

07:52Rick Patino discusses the strategic importance of the three-point shot in his success at Providence and later with Louisville.

09:55Rick Patino reflects on his experience coaching in Greece and how it reignited his passion for basketball.