When Luke Loucks was introduced as Florida State’s new head basketball coach in March 2025, it wasn’t just a homecoming; it was the continuation of a legacy. Speaking recently on Jeff Goodman’s “Field of 68” podcast, the former Seminole point guard revealed the deep personal bonds that shaped his coaching journey.
Leonard Hamilton’s influence goes far beyond his 23-year run that ended with his retirement. Through Loucks, the 76-year-old coaching legend’s championship culture and player-first mindset remain a guiding force as Florida State enters a new era in college basketball.
Leonard Hamilton’s Blueprint Lives On at Florida State
Hamilton’s mentorship of Loucks goes beyond their time together from 2008 to 2012. He saw coaching potential in Loucks early and pushed him to pursue it — advice that helped launch a journey through successful NBA stops with championship organizations.
“He’s like a second father to me, you know. He’s truly one of my mentors that helps me in a lot of different ways, both career-wise and personal-wise,” Loucks told Goodman. “I talk to Leonard almost every day, at minimum a few times a week.”
But it’s not just phone calls. Hamilton still helps in real time — from recruiting visits to staff meetings — offering his wisdom and presence whenever needed.
When a recruit’s mom asks to meet Hamilton, Loucks doesn’t hesitate. “I’m like, ‘Hey, how quickly can you get up to the gym?’ He’s like, ‘Why, what is it?’ And I explained to him — he’s there in 15 minutes and he’s helping me close a deal.”
That kind of support is welcome and encouraged.
When Hamilton worried about overstepping in his old program, Loucks quickly shut that down: “Coach, you’re never going to step on my toes. You’re welcome here every day. You can sit on our coaches’ meetings. You can come to practice every day,” Loucks emphasized.
Modern Evolution of Championship Standards
Loucks honors Hamilton’s foundation — the same one that produced four Sweet 16s and an ACC Tournament title in 2012 — while updating the approach with NBA-level innovation.
He leans on his pro experience when recruiting, offering a credible path to the next level. “I know where you guys want to get to, right? You all want to get to the professional level and make real money,” he tells recruits — and he’s lived it, coached it, and developed it.
Loucks also stays grounded in the program’s culture. Instead of chasing the biggest NIL bids, he’s recruiting guys who believe in Florida State’s long-term vision.
“I want players that want to be at Florida State — that believe in what we’re building and believe we can help you long term,” he said.
As Hamilton shifts into an advisory role, his presence is still felt in every part of the program. From behind-the-scenes insight to community involvement, his impact lives on. And through Loucks, that legacy isn’t fading — it’s fueling Florida State’s future.
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