Mike Brey, James Jones, Lisa Bluder, and Ernie Johnson have been named the recipients of the 2026 Joe Lapchick Character Award, an honor recognizing individuals who have demonstrated outstanding character and integrity in the sport of basketball. The award is named after Joe Lapchick, the Hall of Fame coach and player known for his contributions to the game and his values-driven leadership style both on and off the court.
Mike Brey, best known for his tenure as the men’s basketball coach at Notre Dame, led the Fighting Irish from 2000 to 2023. Under his leadership, the team made numerous NCAA Tournament appearances, including back-to-back Elite Eight runs in 2015 and 2016. Brey is well-regarded for his player-first coaching philosophy and his role in shaping the lives of student-athletes beyond basketball.
Lisa Bluder has been a significant figure in women’s college basketball as the head coach of the University of Iowa women’s team. Since taking over the program in 2000, Bluder has led Iowa to multiple NCAA Tournaments and helped elevate the visibility and competitiveness of her program nationally. Her leadership has stood out for its consistency and emphasis on character development.
James Jones, the long-standing head coach of the Yale University men’s basketball program, has earned recognition for his contributions to Ivy League basketball and his commitment to academic and athletic excellence. Over more than two decades at Yale, Jones has built one of the most consistent programs in the conference.
In the broadcasting world, Ernie Johnson has been a trusted voice in sports media for decades, particularly known for his work on NBA coverage with TNT. His professionalism, compassion, and authenticity have earned him respect throughout the sports community, making him a fitting recipient of this award.
The Joe Lapchick Character Award annually honors individuals who exemplify the qualities that Lapchick stood for: integrity, leadership, and service to others. This year’s honorees reflect a legacy of dedication to sport and to the broader community.
