Steve Lavin Returns to Practice at St. John’s, Timetable Remains Uncertain

St. John’s head men’s basketball coach Steve Lavin returned to practice Tuesday, just over a month after undergoing surgery to treat prostate cancer.

Despite his return to the practice court, the timetable for his return to the sidelines and full head coaching duties remain undefined.

“I’m definitely feeling closer to full strength, and eager for a return to the sidelines,” Lavin in a press release. “I’ve been pleased with the progress made by our young team. During this period of recuperating, Coach Dunlap and the staff have worked in an impressive, collaborative manner to prepare our team for the challenges ahead.”

Mike Dunlap has already led this young Red Storm team to two exhibition wins, along with a 74-59 victory over William & Mary in the first regular season game on Monday night.

In his time away from the court, Lavin has kept in close contact with the team, including watching DVDs of both games and practices, as well as communicating through text message and e-mail with staff and players.

“Naturally we still have much to do in terms of implementing our system and style of play, but the effort from this team has been outstanding,” he added.

Along with Mike Dunlap, assistant coaches Tony Chiles and Rico Hines, along with special assistant Gene Keady, have divided with the media in Lavin’s absence.

Keady said. “He’s starting to get back to normal. He’s laughing a lot now. He walks a lot. He’s making some progress as far as getting back to a normal life. So, we’re anxious to get him back, but Coach Dunlap has done a tremendous job leading us. I can’t say enough about that.”

The Red Storm return to the floor Wednesday night against Lehigh at 7pm at Carnesecca Arena.