Phil Martelli Jr. Named New Head Coach at VCU for Six Years

MORE coaching news just in: Bryant coach Phil Martelli Jr. has agreed to be the next coach at VCU, sources confirmed to CBS Sports. Believe @PeteThamel got in first on this.

Martelli's deal will be for six years. VCU was also targeting Richard Pitino.

Phil Martelli Jr. Named New Coach of VCU

In a significant development in college basketball coaching, Phil Martelli Jr., the head coach of Bryant University, has officially agreed to become the next head coach at Virginia Commonwealth University (VCU). This news, confirmed by sources to CBS Sports, marks a pivotal transition for both Martelli and VCU’s basketball program. The announcement was first reported by Pete Thamel, a prominent sports journalist known for his coverage of college athletics.

Martelli Jr.’s new contract with VCU is set for six years, indicating the university’s commitment to building a successful program under his leadership. This decision comes as VCU looks to enhance its competitive edge in collegiate basketball, aiming to reclaim its status as a powerhouse in the Atlantic 10 Conference.

Background on Phil Martelli Jr.

Before taking the reins at VCU, Martelli Jr. built a solid reputation as a coach at Bryant, where he successfully led the team and showcased his ability to develop players and create a winning culture. His coaching style emphasizes teamwork, discipline, and a strong work ethic, qualities that are essential for achieving success in the competitive landscape of college basketball. Martelli’s experience and strategic mindset will be crucial as he transitions to VCU, a program with a rich history and high expectations.

VCU’s Coaching Search

The decision to hire Martelli comes after a thorough search process that included consideration of several candidates, including notable names like Richard Pitino. VCU is known for its strong basketball tradition, including an impressive run to the Final Four in 2011. The university is eager to build on its past successes and return to the NCAA Tournament, making this coaching hire particularly significant.

What This Means for VCU Basketball

Martelli’s arrival is expected to bring a renewed sense of energy and direction to the VCU basketball program. Fans and stakeholders are hopeful that his leadership will not only improve team performance but also enhance recruitment efforts, attracting top talent to the program. With a six-year contract, Martelli has the opportunity to implement his vision and strategies, which could lead to long-term success for the Rams.

In addition, Martelli’s coaching experience at Bryant will allow him to leverage his knowledge of player development and game strategy, both of which are critical components for competing at a high level. His ability to connect with players and foster a positive team environment will be essential as VCU looks to build a program that thrives on competitiveness and resilience.

Looking Ahead

As Phil Martelli Jr. embarks on this exciting new chapter at VCU, the basketball community will be watching closely. His journey from Bryant to VCU represents not just a personal milestone but also a significant moment for the Rams’ basketball program. The next few years will be critical as Martelli works to establish his coaching philosophy and guide VCU back to prominence in college basketball.

In conclusion, Phil Martelli Jr.’s appointment as head coach at VCU is a strategic move that aims to revitalize the program and set the stage for future success. With strong leadership and a commitment to excellence, VCU basketball is poised for an exciting new era under Martelli’s guidance.

MORE coaching news just in: Bryant coach Phil Martelli Jr. has agreed to be the next coach at VCU, sources confirmed to CBS Sports. Believe @PeteThamel got in first on this.

Martelli’s deal will be for six years. VCU was also targeting Richard Pitino.

— Matt Norlander (@MattNorlander) March 26, 2025

MORE coaching news just in: Bryant coach Phil Martelli Jr. has agreed to be the next coach at VCU, sources confirmed to CBS Sports.

It’s always exciting when big changes happen in the world of college basketball, and this time, the spotlight is on Phil Martelli Jr. He’s made quite a name for himself as the head coach at Bryant University, and now he’s set to take the reins at Virginia Commonwealth University (VCU). This news was confirmed by CBS Sports and initially reported by [Pete Thamel](https://twitter.com/PeteThamel), a reliable source for college sports updates.

Martelli’s journey from Bryant to VCU is a significant step, and many fans are eager to see how he’ll bring his coaching style to a new environment. With a six-year deal in place, it looks like he’s ready for a long-term commitment to build something special at VCU.

Believe @PeteThamel got in first on this.

It’s always interesting to see how news breaks in the sports world. Thamel has a reputation for being one of the first to report significant coaching updates, and this situation is no exception. He’s been following the coaching carousel closely, and his insights are often spot on. With Martelli’s move to VCU, you can bet that fans and analysts alike will be paying close attention to how he adapts to his new role and what changes he might implement in the program.

Martelli has had his share of successes at Bryant, and transitioning to a larger program like VCU will present both challenges and opportunities. The Rams have a strong basketball tradition, and expectations will be high. Fans are eager to see how Martelli’s coaching philosophy will mesh with the existing culture at VCU.

Martelli’s deal will be for six years.

A six-year deal signals a serious commitment, both from Martelli and the VCU administration. It’s not just about winning games; it’s about building a program. Martelli will have the time to recruit, develop talent, and establish a winning culture. This kind of stability is crucial for any coach looking to make a lasting impact.

In the fast-paced world of college basketball, longer contracts like this can also help alleviate some pressure. Coaches often find themselves on the hot seat after just a couple of seasons if the wins don’t come immediately. With a six-year commitment, Martelli will have the opportunity to lay down the foundation without the looming threat of being let go after a rough start.

VCU was also targeting Richard Pitino.

Before settling on Martelli, VCU had its sights set on other candidates, including Richard Pitino. The coaching search process can be unpredictable, and it’s fascinating to see how schools evaluate various candidates. Pitino has his own impressive resume, which made him a strong contender for the VCU position. However, in the end, the school decided to go with Martelli, likely seeing his potential to connect with players and enhance their competitive edge.

The coaching landscape is always changing, and VCU fans may have mixed feelings about the search process. While some may have favored Pitino, the excitement surrounding Martelli’s arrival can’t be understated. Fans are eager to see how he will work with the existing roster and what new recruits he might bring in.

What does this mean for the VCU basketball program?

For VCU, bringing in a coach like Martelli is an investment in the future. He’s known for his ability to develop players and create a cohesive team environment. The Rams have a passionate fan base and a strong following, and they’re hoping that Martelli can lead them back to the NCAA tournament and beyond.

Basketball is not just about the game; it’s about the community. Martelli’s previous experiences can help him cultivate relationships with players, alumni, and fans. This connection is vital for building a strong program that resonates with everyone involved.

As Martelli steps into this new role, he’ll likely focus on establishing his style of play, recruiting talented players, and fostering a positive team culture. The expectations will be high, but with his track record, he has the potential to make a significant impact.

Looking ahead: The future of VCU basketball

The future looks promising for VCU as they embark on this new chapter with Phil Martelli Jr. at the helm. The excitement surrounding his hiring is palpable, and fans are eager to see what changes he’ll implement. The six-year deal indicates that the university is committed to building a successful program and sees Martelli as the right person for the job.

The journey won’t be without its challenges, but with the right support and a strong vision, Martelli could lead VCU back to prominence. As he begins to recruit and develop a team that embodies his philosophy, the community will rally behind him, providing the support and encouragement that every coach needs to thrive.

In the end, the coaching news surrounding Phil Martelli Jr. stepping into the role at VCU is just the beginning of what could be an exciting era for Rams basketball. The fans are ready, and the stage is set for a thrilling ride ahead!