Gerry McNamara’s Syracuse Team Revamps Siena Basketball in Two Seasons
Siena University has seen a significant transformation in its basketball program under head coach Gerry McNamara. In just two seasons, McNamara has revitalized the Saints, leading them to the NCAA Tournament after a tumultuous season.
Coaching Staff Revitalization
Upon taking the helm, McNamara made strategic hires to bolster his coaching staff. He sought experienced individuals who shared his commitment to winning. Notable hires included:
- Ben Lee: Former assistant coach under Mike Hopkins at Washington.
- Arinze Onuaku: McNamara’s teammate from Syracuse with coaching experience in the G League.
- Ryan Blackwell: A Syracuse alum and successful high school coach with a state championship under his belt.
- Ryan Beaury: Former video coordinator at Syracuse who now oversees basketball operations.
- Brian Beaury: Veteran coach with 654 wins, serving as a special assistant.
These coaches have closely monitored their alma mater, supporting the Syracuse basketball program while focusing on elevating Siena’s performance.
Overcoming Challenges
The Saints encountered adversity during the season with several key player injuries. The team lost:
- 6-foot-10 big man Tasman Goodrick to a knee injury.
- 6-7 wing Reid Ducharme to a shoulder injury.
- 6-6 forward Antonio Chandler due to eligibility issues.
Despite these setbacks, McNamara’s guidance and the resilience of the team enabled Siena to secure a spot in the NCAA Tournament.
Cultivating Team Cohesion
McNamara emphasizes the importance of building a cohesive coaching staff. His approach has fostered a collaborative environment where coaches challenge each other while maintaining a shared vision for success. Onuaku noted the synergy among the coaching staff and how it has translated into effective game preparation.
Player Development and Program Culture
McNamara’s attention to detail in practice has garnered respect from players. Fundamental skills training is a core focus, with players like Francis Folefac and Gavin Doty praising McNamara’s intense yet supportive coaching style. His passion for the game drives the team’s motivation to meet his high expectations.
A Bright Future
In just two seasons, McNamara has rebuilt the Saints into a competitive team in the MAAC. With the best recruiting class in the conference set to join next season, fans are optimistic about the program’s future. The emotional response from supporters during the NCAA Selection Show underscored the community’s renewed enthusiasm for Siena basketball.
As the Saints prepare for their first NCAA Tournament appearance since 2010 against No. 1 Duke, the transformation orchestrated by Gerry McNamara’s leadership stands as a testament to the power of commitment and vision in college basketball.
