Joe Lapchick (b. April 12, 1900 in Yonkers, New York - d. August 10, 1970 in New York, NY) was a pro basketball player, mostly known for playing with the Original Celtics in the 1920s and 30s. He is commonly regarded as the best center of his era, overshadowed (if anything) in his later years only by Tarzan Cooper. After ending his playing career in 1937, Lapchick became headcoach at St. John's University, a position he held until 1947, when he took over the New York Knicks in the NBA. Lapchick coached the Knicks until 1957, leading them to three consecutive NBA finals appearances (1951-53). He return to St. John's, coaching them until 1965.