Virginia Commonwealth University Men’s Basketball has a new head coach, and he’s no stranger to building success. Phil Martelli Jr., who was formally introduced at a press conference March 27, takes over the program after leading Bryant University to new heights over the past two seasons.

Martelli brings a strong track record to VCU, having led Bryant to America East regular season and tournament championships in 2024-25, along with the Bulldogs’ second NCAA Tournament appearance since moving to Division I. He finished his two seasons at Bryant with a 43-25 record, including a 25-7 mark in America East play. His teams were known for their fast-paced style, ranking nationally in tempo and scoring offense.

“Phil has proven himself as a winner throughout his career,” said VCU Vice President and Director of Athletics Ed McLaughlin. “He helped engineer a historic turnaround at Bryant and has made his own path with hard work, good character, and a commitment to developing young men into the best versions of themselves through sport.”

Martelli, 43, replaces Mike Rhoades, who left to take the head coaching job at Penn State. Before his time at Bryant,

Martelli spent seasons as an assistant coach at the University of Delaware, Niagara, and Saint Joseph’s, where he was part of a team that made NCAA Tournament appearances in 2001 and 2003.

A 2003 graduate of Saint Joseph’s, Martelli played four seasons for the Hawks and earned his degree in marketing. He is the son of former Saint Joseph’s Coach Phil Martelli and the brother of former VCU Director of Operations Jimmy Martelli.

“I am excited to help carry on the legacy that has been set here and help elevate it to the next level,” Martelli said. “VCU has long been a dream job for me because of its high standards of excellence and national brand.”