Ron Naclerio Becomes Winningest Coach in NYS History

Queens, NY - Benjamin Cardozo High School boys basketball coach Ron Naclerio became the winningest coach in New York State high school history on Jan. 30, recording his 973rd career victory with a 69–46 win over Julia Richman High School.

The victory moved Naclerio past longtime Archbishop Molloy coach Jack Curran, whose 972 wins had stood as the state record.

Naclerio has led the Cardozo program since 1981, building one of the most consistent teams in New York City public school basketball. During his tenure, the Judges have captured two PSAL city championships, in 1999 and 2014.

Over the course of his career, Naclerio has coached standout players who went on to the NBA, including Duane Causwell, Rafer Alston, Royal Ivey and James Southerland.

Naclerio has earned nine victories in Big Apple Basketball events during his career. Between 2005-2016, he led Cardozo to victories over Archbishop Molloy, Iona Prep, St. Peter’s, St. Raymond, Archbishop Carroll (D.C.), Friendship Charter (DC), Patterson (MD), San Diego (CA), and Seton Hall Prep (NJ), competing against top programs from New York City and across the country.

For more than four decades, Naclerio has remained a central figure in New York City high school basketball, guiding the Cardozo program through multiple generations of players while maintaining a tradition of competitive success.