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Syracuse Nears Deal to Hire Gerry McNamara as Head Coach

3/23/2026

26 3 Full Breakdown

Summary

Story summary

Syracuse University is nearing a deal to hire Gerry McNamara, a Syracuse standout and Siena coach, as its next men's basketball head coach, following the dismissal of Adrian Autry.
McNamara spent the last two seasons at Siena, guiding the Saints to their first NCAA Tournament appearance in 16 years.
Boosters view his ties to Syracuse and success as factors in discussions as the program attempts a five-year NCAA drought.

History

Historical Context

Jim Boeheim began coaching Syracuse University in 1976, leading the team to a national championship in 2003 and 35 NCAA Tournament appearances. His tenure, marked by a unique 2-3 zone defense, ended in 2023. The hiring of former player Gerry McNamara as an assistant reflects a trend of universities revitalizing programs through alumni connections, aiming to end Syracuse's five-year NCAA drought.

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Story summary

Syracuse University is nearing a deal to hire Gerry McNamara, a Syracuse standout and Siena coach, as its next men's basketball head coach, following the dismissal of Adrian Autry.
McNamara spent the last two seasons at Siena, guiding the Saints to their first NCAA Tournament appearance in 16 years.
Boosters view his ties to Syracuse and success as factors in discussions as the program attempts a five-year NCAA drought.

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