Gerry McNamara ’06 Appointed Head Coach of Syracuse Men’s Basketball
Gerry McNamara, a revered figure in Syracuse University’s basketball history, has been appointed as the head coach of the men’s basketball program. This decision was made official by the Board of Trustees, effective immediately. McNamara, a native of Scranton, Pennsylvania, and a member of the 2003 National Championship-winning team, returns to his roots after an impressive tenure at Siena University.
McNamara’s Coaching Journey
Before taking the helm at Siena, McNamara spent 14 seasons as an assistant coach under Jim Boeheim. In his first season with Siena, he led the team to a 14-18 record, marking a substantial improvement from the previous year. This success positioned him among the top ten national turnarounds in Division I basketball. His performance earned him a spot as a finalist for the CollegeInsider.com Joe B. Hall Award, which recognizes outstanding first-time Division I head coaches.
His Vision for Syracuse Basketball
Upon his return, McNamara expressed deep affection for Syracuse and emphasized his commitment to the program. “I love this place and what Syracuse means to the fans and players,” he stated. He acknowledged the evolution in college basketball and is prepared to adapt the program to meet new challenges while upholding the expectations of Orange Nation.
Legacy and Achievements
- Collegiate Career: McNamara was a four-year starter at Syracuse from 2002 to 2006.
- Records: He holds the records for the most career three-pointers (400) and free throw percentage (.888).
- National Recognition: In 2006, he earned Associated Press Honorable Mention All-American honors and was named the MVP of the Big East Tournament.
- Retired Jersey: His No. 3 jersey was retired by Syracuse in March 2023.
Community Impact
McNamara’s impact extends beyond the court. He has developed strong relationships with recruits, especially elite guards and perimeter players. His guidance has led many Syracuse athletes to successful careers, including NBA players such as Michael Carter-Williams and Buddy Boeheim. Chancellor-elect J. Michael Haynie noted McNamara’s mission to restore Syracuse basketball to its elite status, highlighting his coaching, recruiting, and fundraising skills as crucial to achieving this goal.
Family and Personal Background
A 2006 graduate with a degree in speech communications, McNamara was also a standout at Bishop Hannan High School, where he earned multiple state player of the year honors. He represented the United States as a gold medalist at the 2005 World University Games. McNamara and his wife, Katie, are parents to four children: Gerry, Patrick, Maggie, and Grace.
The upcoming 2026-27 season marks an exciting new chapter for both McNamara and Syracuse basketball. Enthusiastic supporters are eager to see how this legendary player and coach will drive the program towards success.
