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Siena University has officially started a nationwide search for its next men's basketball head coach after Gerry McNamara announced he is leaving to lead his alma mater, Syracuse University. The announcement was made on Tuesday (March 24), capping a standout season for the Saints that included a Metro Atlantic Athletic Conference (MAAC) championship and a closely contested first-round loss to Duke in the NCAA Tournament. According to the Times Union, McNamara transformed Siena from a four-win team to a 23-12 record in just two seasons.
Siena’s athletic department emphasized its gratitude for McNamara’s contributions, stating, "Gerry led our Saints with character, grace, and integrity, and built a basketball program that our community was proud of, while reinvigorating our fan base." The department confirmed that "an immediate, nationwide search is underway for the next leader of the Siena Men's Basketball program," as reported by NEWS10 ABC.
Reflecting on his tenure, McNamara shared, "It has been one of the greatest honors of my life to be the head basketball coach at Siena University the past two years. My family is forever grateful for the love and support we received from not only Siena, but the entire Loudonville and Capital Region." He thanked the administration, fans, and players, saying, "Leaving Siena is incredibly difficult, and I do so with a heavy, yet full heart."
The search for a new coach comes as the Saints face potential roster changes. Redshirt sophomore guard Reid Ducharme has already announced plans to enter the NCAA transfer portal, and MAAC Tournament MVP Gavin Doty could follow McNamara to Syracuse. Freshman Francis Folefac is also considering his options. At least one recruit from the incoming class, Christian Gilliland, has decided not to enroll at Siena following McNamara’s departure, according to the Times Union.
The Saints’ leadership has pledged to build upon the momentum created under McNamara and to continue the program’s upward trajectory. More updates are expected as Siena’s coaching search progresses and as the NCAA transfer portal opens on Monday (April 7).