Phil Martelli Jr. named new VCU men's basketball coach

Phil Martelli Jr. has been appointed as the new head coach of the VCU Men’s Basketball team, succeeding Ryan Odom, who recently took the head coach position at the University of Virginia. Martelli, who previously led Bryant University to notable success, including an NCAA Tournament appearance, expressed excitement about returning to the Atlantic 10 conference. During his time at Bryant, he achieved a 43-25 record and was recognized as the America East Coach of the Year. VCU athletic director Ed McLaughlin praised Martelli for his dedication to developing young athletes and his contributions to college basketball. Martelli's hiring is seen as a continuation of VCU's legacy as a competitive mid-major basketball program, which has a history of NCAA tournament success. He is also expected to bring his father, Phil Martelli Sr., onto his coaching staff.