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High Point Today
By the People, for the People
Syracuse Hires Former Player Gerry McNamara as Head Coach
McNamara, a star player for the Orange in the early 2000s, returns to lead the program.
Mar. 22, 2026 at 7:08pm
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Syracuse University has hired former player Gerry McNamara as its new head basketball coach. McNamara, who played for the Orange from 2002 to 2006 and helped lead the team to a national championship in 2003, will take over the program after the departure of the previous head coach.
Why it matters
McNamara's hiring represents a return to the program's glory days, as he was a key part of one of Syracuse's most successful teams in recent memory. His familiarity with the university and the local community is seen as an asset that could help revitalize the struggling program.
The details
McNamara, 41, has spent the past several years as an assistant coach at various colleges, gaining experience that the university hopes will translate to success as a head coach. He is known for his strong recruiting abilities and player development skills, which the Orange will look to leverage as they aim to return to the NCAA Tournament.
- McNamara was announced as the new head coach on March 22, 2026.
The players
Gerry McNamara
A former Syracuse basketball player who won a national championship with the team in 2003 and is now returning as the new head coach.
What they’re saying
“Gerry is the perfect fit to lead our basketball program back to prominence. His passion for Syracuse and experience as a player and coach make him the ideal choice.”
— John Wildhack, Syracuse Athletic Director
What’s next
McNamara will immediately begin recruiting and assembling his coaching staff as he prepares for his first season leading the Orange.
The takeaway
Syracuse's decision to hire one of its own in Gerry McNamara signals a desire to reconnect with the program's storied past and build towards a brighter future. His familiarity with the university and basketball community could provide the spark the team needs to return to the NCAA Tournament.
