The Orange hired McNamara earlier this week after his successful two-year stint at Siena University, and it seems like he's going to be bringing one of his players with him.
When Syracuse University hired new head coach Gerry McNamara away from Siena on Tuesday, we instantly knew there was a chance that he'd be bringing some or all of his staff with him.
And while those details are still unknown, it seems highly likely that he'll be bringing at least one of his Siena players with him.
As noted by Joe Tipton of On3, Siena sophomore guard/forward Gavin Doty has officially entered the transfer portal. Doty was a First Team All-MAAC selection this season as the Saints won the MAAC championship. He's previously said that he wants to play for McNamara his entire college career, which makes his connection to Syracuse extremely logical. He's also a Central New York native, hailing from nearby Fulton.
More on Doty
In addition to being a First-Team All-MAAC selection this year, he was also an All-Rookie selection last season. He averaged more than 18 ppg this year while also pulling down 6.9 rebounds. He shot 45.8 percent from the floor and 32.6 percent from three-point range. He had 21 in the NCAA Tournament loss against Duke.
How could he fit with Syracuse?
For starters, he understands exactly what McNamara is trying to build. He's seen it before and lived it before. He knows the vision and can help impart it to other players on the roster, while also serving as a go-between for the roster and coaching staff.
Second off, Syracuse has a need at the guard position. JJ Starling is set to graduate, opening up a starting spot in the backcourt. William Kyle III is also graduating, opening up a second spot in the starting lineup.
McNamara recently spoke about Doty, singing his praises.
Nate Kingz is working on gaining another year of eligibility, but it's unclear if he'll actually get it, which could open up a third spot.
Siena Saints guard Gavin Doty (4) reacts after scoring Thursday, March 19, 2026, during the NCAA Men’s Basketball Tournament first round game against the Duke Blue Devils at Bon Secours Wellness Arena in Greenville, South Carolina.What about the current options?
Sadiq White Jr. and Kiyan Anthony will both be sophomores next season, but are they even coming back? In the era of the transfer portal, McNamara will have to convince them to stay. If they do, Doty will have instant competition for playing time or a starting role. If one or both leave, Doty would easily slot in.
Tyler Betsey, a sharpshooter, will also be returning - if McNamara can convince him to.
Side note
Syracuse fans really gravitated to Starling, who was a Baldwinsville native. Bringing in Doty would also help give local fans another reason to buy into the program. It's always good to keep local talent local, or to bring it back when you can.
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