Syracuse Set to Hire Siena's Gerry McNamara as Next Basketball Head Coach

College Sports · By Marcus Chen · March 22, 2026
Syracuse Set to Hire Siena's Gerry McNamara as Next Basketball Head Coach

Syracuse is on the verge of a significant coaching shift as the university moves to hire Gerry McNamara, currently the head coach at Siena, to lead its men's basketball program, according to sources familiar with the decision. The move signals a homecoming for McNamara, a former Orange standout whose playing career left a lasting mark on the storied program.

Sources indicate the university is finalizing its agreement with McNamara, who has spent recent seasons guiding the Siena Saints and previously served on the coaching staff at Syracuse. This anticipated hire comes as Syracuse looks to usher in a new era following a period of transition for the basketball program.

  • McNamara was a star guard for Syracuse from 2002-2006, helping the team win the 2003 NCAA Championship.
  • He has previous experience as an assistant coach at Syracuse before taking the head job at Siena.
  • The university is expected to make a formal announcement once contract details are finalized.

As one of the most beloved players in program history, McNamara's return is expected to energize the fan base and provide continuity with Syracuse's rich basketball tradition. His leadership at Siena has drawn praise, and his deep connections to the university and the broader college basketball community are seen as assets as he prepares to take on the high-profile head coaching role at his alma mater.

Sources

  1. [1]ESPN College Sports