Former Syracuse basketball star Gerry McNamara has officially been named the head coach at Siena College after spending the past 15 years on staff with the Orange.
McNamara will be formally introduced at a press conference on Tuesday at 1 p.m.
He replaces Siena alum Carmen Maciariello, who was fired after going 68-72 in five seasons at the school — including a 4-28 mark this season.
McNamara has been on the Syracuse staff since 2009 — first as a graduate assistant, then more than a decade as an assistant under Jim Boeheim and last season he became associate head coach for the Orange when Adrian Autry took over as head coach.
“I want to thank President Seifert and Athletic Director John D’Argenio for this incredible opportunity,” said McNamara in a statement. “I am so honored and excited to lead Siena College as the new head men’s basketball coach. My family and I can’t wait to get started and embrace Siena and the Capital Region.”
The 40-year-old McNamara arrives at Siena after spending the past 15 years on staff at Syracuse. He reunited with his Basketball Hall of Fame Head Coach Jim Boeheim as a graduate assistant in 2009 at his alma mater, before being promoted to a full-time assistant in 2011.
“I think Gerry would be a perfect fit at Siena,” Boeheim said by phone.
In his 15 seasons on staff, McNamara helped guide Syracuse to nine NCAA Tournament appearances, highlighted by trips to the Final Four in both 2013 and 2016. Primarily charged with recruiting, scouting, and guard development, McNamara mentored current NBA performers Buddy Boeheim (Detroit Pistons) and Cole Swider (Miami Heat), and former players Michael Carter-Williams, Tyler Ennis, Michael Gbinije, Elijah Hughes, and Dion Waiters.
“In the rich tapestry of Siena College’s history, both on and off the basketball court, this moment marks a pivotal chapter as we welcome Gerry McNamara to lead our Saints,” said Siena College President Dr. Charles “Chuck” Seifert. “Gerry’s illustrious career and championship pedigree at Syracuse University, paired with his exceptional skills in mentoring young talent, align perfectly with the high expectations and storied tradition of Siena Basketball.
(The AP contributed reporting)
