Syracuse predicted to hire 2-time National Champion, Dan Hurley protege to replace Adrian Autry

The Syracuse basketball program is coming off a second consecutive disappointing season. After nearly making the NCAA Tournament in Adrian Autry’s first season, the past two years have been rough for the Orange. Earlier this week, it was announced that Syracuse would be parting ways with Autry.

“Syracuse is expected to fire head men’s basketball coach Adrian Autry, sources tell On3. The Orange went 49-48 in three seasons under Autry and failed to reach the NCAA Tournament during his tenure. Autry, who replaced Hall of Fame coach Jim Boeheim, showed early signs of promise in his first season, winning 20 games. However, the program regressed over the next two years, posting back-to-back losing seasons,” Joe Tipton of On3 wrote.

Now, attention turns to finding his replacement. Several names are being considered, but one intriguing option is Kimani Young.

“The buzz from national observers is that Young and Luke Murray (see below) are both expected to be considered for high-major head coaching jobs this offseason. Young is a New York City guy, having played high school basketball in Queens, N.Y. He's been instrumental to the Huskies winning back-to-back national championships in 2023 and 2024. Additionally, Young began his coaching career as the athletics director at New Heights Youth in New York City, a prominent AAU program,” Inside the Loud House’s Neil Adler wrote.

The key for Syracuse is hiring a proven winner, and Young fits that description. Having worked under Dan Hurley at UConn and earned two national championships, he brings the pedigree and experience the program needs.

Syracuse has struggled to live up to its historic standards, which has been disheartening for fans and alumni alike. The priority now is restoring the culture and bringing the program back to prominence. Kimani Young appears to be a candidate capable of leading that revival.