LOUDONVILLE, NY – Just hours after securing a berth in the NCAA Men’s Basketball Tournament with a dramatic victory in the Metro Atlantic Athletic Conference (MAAC) championship, Siena Saints head coach Gerry McNamara is reportedly a candidate to become the next head coach at his alma mater, Syracuse University. The news, first reported by the Times Union, throws the future of the rapidly ascending Siena program into question.
McNamara, a former star guard for the Orange, led Siena to a 20-10 overall record and a 12-6 mark in MAAC play during the 2025-26 season, culminating in the program’s first NCAA Tournament appearance since 2010. The Saints defeated Iona 78-69 on March 11, 2026, to claim the MAAC title, a victory that has now been overshadowed by speculation surrounding McNamara’s potential return to Syracuse.
The timing is particularly striking, given McNamara’s relatively short tenure at Siena. He was hired in 2024, and his success this season has quickly revitalized a program that had struggled in recent years. Before taking the helm at Siena, McNamara spent 14 seasons as an assistant coach at Syracuse under Jim Boeheim, including the 2023-24 season as associate head coach. His deep ties to the program and passionate fanbase build him an attractive candidate for the Orange, who are seeking a new leader after a period of transition.
McNamara’s playing career at Syracuse was decorated with accolades. He was a two-time First-team All-Big East selection (2005, 2006) and a member of the 2003 national championship team. He never missed a start in his collegiate career, playing from 2002 to 2006. He finished his career as the Orange’s all-time leader in three-pointers made, a record that still stands today. He was as well named the Chip Hilton Player of the Year in 2006.
Siena’s Championship Run
Siena’s journey to the NCAA Tournament was marked by resilience and clutch performances. The Saints navigated a competitive MAAC landscape, overcoming adversity to reach the championship game. The victory over Iona was a testament to McNamara’s coaching ability and the team’s unwavering determination. According to Siena University Athletics, it was “Seventh Heaven” for the Saints, marking a significant milestone for the program and its supporters.
The team’s success has generated considerable excitement in the Capital Region, with fans celebrating the program’s return to national prominence. The NCAA Tournament berth provides valuable exposure for Siena and the MAAC conference, showcasing the talent and competitiveness of mid-major basketball programs. Syracuse.com noted that the win clinched an NCAA Tournament berth for McNamara’s team on March 11, 2026, exactly twenty years after he helped lead Syracuse to a Big East semifinal victory over Georgetown.
Syracuse’s Coaching Search
Syracuse is currently navigating a critical juncture in its basketball program’s history. The university is seeking a coach who can restore the program to its former glory and maintain its tradition of excellence. McNamara’s familiarity with the program, his proven track record as a recruiter, and his deep understanding of the university’s culture make him a compelling candidate. However, his success at Siena has undoubtedly increased his value and potentially complicated the negotiations.
According to reports, McNamara is “under consideration” for the position, but the extent of the discussions and the presence of other candidates remain unclear. The university has not yet released an official timeline for its coaching search, but a decision is expected in the coming weeks. The situation is fluid, and the outcome will have significant implications for both Siena, and Syracuse.
The possibility of McNamara leaving Siena so soon after leading them to the NCAA Tournament raises questions about the program’s long-term stability. Finding a replacement with similar coaching acumen and recruiting connections will be a challenge for Siena’s administration. However, the program’s recent success and the enthusiasm surrounding the team could attract a talented pool of candidates.
What’s Next?
The coming days will be crucial as Syracuse evaluates its coaching options and McNamara weighs his future. The allure of returning to his alma mater and leading a program with a rich basketball tradition is undoubtedly strong. However, he also has a burgeoning program at Siena that he has successfully revitalized. The decision will likely hinge on a combination of factors, including the university’s offer, his vision for the future, and his commitment to the Siena program and its players.
Stay tuned to archyde.com for further updates on this developing story. We encourage readers to share their thoughts and opinions in the comments section below.
