Siena held a press conference Wednesday to announce Head Men’s Basketball Coach Fran McCaffery has agreed to terms on a new eight-year contract that is scheduled to keep him in Loudonville through the 2016-17 season. McCaffery’s has led the Saints to an 86-43 record in his four years with the program.
“I have thoroughly enjoyed my first four years at Siena and am very proud of all that we have accomplished,” McCaffery said. “The continued support of the administration and Siena community has made this place a very special home for me and my family. I look forward to building upon our recent success, while continuing to develop young men of character who represent Siena’s mission and values in the most positive way possible.”
McCaffery guided the Saints to a 27-8 overall record in 2008-09 and a second consecutive MAAC Championship and NCAA Tournament win. The 27 wins equaled a program record and marked the most ever in the Division I era. The Saints were ranked #28 nationally in the final ESPN/USA Today Coaches Poll ? their highest final national ranking since turning Division I in 1976. The Siena men have posted three straight 20-win seasons for the first time in their Division I history.
“It was important that Siena show it is committed to the basketball program and its head coach,” Director of Athletics John D’Argenio said. “We are extremely pleased that the College and Fran have agreed to a new contract that is a win-win for both of us. What has been accomplished the past two seasons is unmatched in Siena’s rich basketball tradition. We look to continue moving forward and adding to that tradition.”
Details of the redesigned contract were not released beyond the length. McCaffery’s previous contract was set to expire after the 2010-11 season.
“Fran has earned the respect of those in the Siena community through his leadership skills, which have transcended into wins both on and off the basketball court,” Siena President Fr. Kevin Mullen ’75, O.F.M., Ph.D. said. “Whether it is winning NCAA tournament games or serving those less fortunate in our local community, our men's basketball coaching staff and student-athletes are great representatives for Siena College.”
Siena returns four of five starters and seven of the nine members of its 2008-09 regular rotation to next year’s team which ranks 20th nationally in the rivals.com early Preseason top-25 poll.