About Johnny McCarthy

Johnny McCarthy: Buffalo’s Basketball Legend

Buffalo, NY, has been the starting point for many great stories, but few shine as brightly in sports history as the life and legacy of Johnny McCarthy. Born on April 25, 1934, and raised in Buffalo, Johnny became one of the city’s most iconic athletes. His remarkable career as a basketball player and coach brought him from the courts of Canisius College to the bright lights of the NBA, even earning him a role in the league’s history books.

From Buffalo’s Streets to National Recognition

Growing up in Buffalo, Johnny McCarthy developed his basketball talent at Timon High School before joining Canisius College. A star player for the Canisius Golden Griffins, McCarthy led the team through a golden era. He helped secure two NCAA Tournament appearances in 1955 and 1956, including an unforgettable four-overtime thriller against North Carolina State, ending in a 79-78 Canisius victory. By the time his college career ended, Johnny had amassed 1,160 points, solidifying his place as one of the school’s all-time greats.

Johnny’s success at Canisius earned him a spot in the 1956 NBA Draft, where he was selected in the fourth round by the Rochester Royals. It was just the beginning of a pro career that would continue to reflect the grit and determination he exhibited during his Buffalo upbringing.

NBA Stardom and a Historic Triple-Double

Johnny McCarthy spent six seasons in the NBA, playing as a versatile and determined point guard for the Rochester Royals (which later became the Cincinnati Royals), St. Louis Hawks, and ultimately the Boston Celtics. He averaged a solid 7.8 points and 3.7 assists per game in his career and logged nearly 28 minutes per game over 316 total games. His highlight reel is filled with moments that demonstrate just how special a player he truly was.

One of Johnny’s crowning achievements came in 1960 during his time with the St. Louis Hawks. Facing the Minneapolis Lakers in his playoff debut, Johnny recorded a historic triple-double, registering 13 points, 11 rebounds, and 11 assists. With that, he became the first player in NBA history to accomplish a triple-double in their playoff debut—a feat only matched by legends like Magic Johnson, LeBron James, and Nikola Jokic.

Johnny’s career reached its pinnacle in 1964 when he won an NBA Championship with the Boston Celtics. The Celtics, coached by the legendary Red Auerbach and led by Bill Russell, were in the midst of their dynasty years, having captured eight consecutive championships. Although Johnny only played 28 games with the team that season, he was part of a roster that is still revered as one of history’s greatest.

Giving Back to Buffalo Through Coaching

After his playing days ended, Johnny returned to Buffalo to give back to the community and sport that had shaped his career. He stepped into coaching and scouting, taking over as head coach of the Buffalo Braves during their 1971-72 season. While his coaching stint with the Braves was challenging, it was a perfect representation of Johnny’s love for Buffalo basketball.

He then returned to his alma mater, Canisius College, to coach the men’s basketball team from 1974 to 1977. With his deep connection to the college and the city, he inspired a new generation of players to push boundaries and continue Buffalo’s tradition of basketball excellence.

A Legacy Cemented in Buffalo Sports History

Johnny McCarthy’s impact on the basketball world extends beyond his statistics and accolades. He symbolized the spirit of Buffalo—a hardworking, resilient, and passionate city. Whether in his time as a player, coach, or mentor, Johnny always represented his roots with pride and humility.

His passing in 2020, at age 86, was a significant loss for the Buffalo sports community, but his legacy remains firmly intact. Canisius College President John Hurley once said, “John McCarthy was clearly one of the best, if not the best, basketball players to come through Canisius College.” It’s a sentiment echoed by basketball fans in Buffalo and beyond.

Johnny’s story reminds us of the incredible heights that can be reached with determination and a true connection to one’s community. From NCAA glory to NBA championships to mentoring the next generation, McCarthy left basketball—and Buffalo—better than he found them.

Buffalo will always remember Johnny McCarthy as more than just an athlete. He was a hometown hero, a trailblazer, and an eternal icon of Buffalo’s unwavering love for sports.