FORT MEYERS, FL – John Carroll graduate student guard Luke Chicone (Mentor, OH/Mentor) has been named a finalist for the 2026 Ryan Turell Character & Inspiration Award, presented by Small College Basketball and sponsored by the Kraft Family Foundation.
 
The Ryan Turell Character & Inspiration Award is presented annually to a player who has faced adversity, demonstrated character and perseverance, and served as an inspiration and role model for others.
 
Chicone returned to John Carroll for a graduate year to earn a teaching certificate while operating a basketball training company that provides AAU opportunities for young players. In addition to his work on the court, Chicone has made a significant impact through personal mentorship, including a relationship with a young man battling severe depression. The impact of that relationship prompted the young man to personally nominate Chicone for this award.
 
Chicone plans to pursue a career in education and coaching, following in the footsteps of his grandfather, longtime Blue Streak head coach Mike Moran, and his uncles Pete and Pat Moran.
 
The winner of the 2026 Ryan Turell Character & Inspiration Award will be announced April 6 at halftime of the NCAA Division I National Championship game. For more information on Small College Basketball, visit smallcollegebasketball.com.