One of Syracuse University’s most recognizable basketball figures is returning to lead the program.
The university announced on Tuesday that Gerry McNamara, a key member of Syracuse’s 2003 national championship team, has been named head coach of the men’s basketball program. His appointment was approved by the Executive Committee of the Board of Trustees and is effective immediately.
McNamara, a Scranton, Pennsylvania native, returns to Syracuse after two seasons as head coach at Siena College, where he led a significant turnaround of the program. In his first season, Siena improved by 10 wins, finishing 14-18, a performance that earned him recognition as a finalist for the Joe B. Hall Award, given to the nation’s top first-time Division I head coach.
Before his time at Siena, McNamara spent more than a decade on the Syracuse coaching staff, including serving as associate head coach during the 2023-24 season. During his tenure as an assistant, he helped guide the Orange to nine NCAA Tournament appearances, including Final Four runs in 2013 and 2016.
As a player from 2002 to 2006, McNamara left a lasting mark on the program. He remains Syracuse’s all-time leader in made three-pointers, free throw percentage, and minutes played. He earned All-Final Four honors during the team’s 2003 championship run and was later named MVP of the Big East Tournament in 2006. His No. 3 jersey was retired in 2023.
University officials praised McNamara’s leadership, recruiting ability, and deep ties to the program, calling his return a pivotal moment for Syracuse basketball.
McNamara said he is ready to lead the program in a changing college basketball landscape while meeting the expectations of fans and alumni.
He will take over immediately as Syracuse prepares for the 2026–27 season.
