In Memoriam: Thomas Konchalski Class of 1964

It is with great sadness that Archbishop Molloy High School mourns the passing of Stanner Hall of Famer Thomas Konchalski ‘64 after a courageous battle with cancer. Mr. Konchalski passed away on February 8, 2021 at the age of 74. He was a native and longtime resident of Forest Hills, Queens.

For over 40 years, Mr. Konchalski established himself as one of the most knowledgeable and highly respected high school basketball scouts in New York City. He was well known for his self-produced HSBI Report, a comprehensive, hard-copy only pamphlet circulated among New York City’s basketball coaching community. Mr. Konchalski consistently rated and evaluated thousands of high school basketball players annually. He had an eye for top talent, scouting many elite players who went on to successful collegiate and professional playing careers. Among the players Mr. Konchalski scouted are Kenny Smith ’83 (North Carolina, 2X NBA Champion), Kenny Anderson ’89, (Georgia Tech, NBA All-Star), Sundiata Gaines ’04 (University of Georgia, NBA), Russ Smith ’09 (Louisville, NCAA Champion, NBA), Moses Brown ’18 (McDonald’s All-American, UCLA, NBA), and the list goes on.

Mr. Konchalski was also known for his keen memory, as he could recall most of if not every player he scouted throughout his career – regardless of the level of fame they achieved. A loyal Stanner, Mr. Konchalski attended countless basketball games in the Jack Curran Gymnasium as well as many of Molloy’s alumni events. Each visit to his alma mater was marked by conversations with friends, former players, alumni, and fellow scouts, all of whom routinely marveled at his recollection of players, stats, and moments. Mr. Konchalski retired in May 2020, but not before carving out an inspiring legacy that will continue to impact the sport of basketball for years to come, especially in his hometown of New York City.

Statement from President Richard Karsten ’81: “Mr. Konchalski was an excellent talent scout who evaluated and helped nurture many of the brightest stars in New York City basketball. The breadth of his knowledge and expertise laid a foundation that many have celebrated and emulated with a great deal of respect. Beyond his legendary career, Mr. Konchalski was an even better friend to so many people, not only in our school community, but throughout the world of basketball. He was also a faith-filled man who believed in the power of prayer and compassion for others. We at Archbishop Molloy High School pray that Mr. Konchalski is now at peace in God’s care.”

Statement from Athletic Director Mike McCleary: “Tom was a good friend to me, to the late Coach Jack Curran, and to Molloy for many years. He was highly respected in his field; there was not a person who wouldn’t pick up the phone when he called, whether it was Coach K or Pat Riley. If someone sought his help, he did everything he could to help them. He was a gentleman always and an angel here on Earth.”

Molloy will share more information as it becomes available. Please keep Mr. Konchalski and his family in your prayers.