From March to the Market: Who Should Be the Next Head Coach at Bryant?
- Will Tondo
- Mar 31
- 3 min read
Just a couple of seasons removed from a wild March Madness debut and the dismissal of Jared Grasso, the Bryant University Men's Basketball team is now seeking its next head coach. Just when the Bulldogs were hitting their stride, Bryant University's head coach, Phil Martelli Jr., departed for VCU. Martelli's head coaching tenure was short but impactful, leading Bryant to a program-record 23 wins and their first America East title in 2025.
Now, Bryant stands at a pivotal juncture. The foundation is solid: back-to-back 20-win seasons, an America East championship, and a taste of March Madness, despite the first-round loss to Michigan State. The next head coach must build upon this momentum, emphasizing the following.
Recruiting Prowess: Strengthening pipelines in the New England and Tri-State areas to attract top-tier talent.
Cultural Leadership: Fostering a disciplined yet dynamic environment that balances ambition with accountability.
Strategic Vision: Implementing a sustainable system that can consistently compete at the top of the America East Conference.
Here is a breakdown of who could fit that mold.
Chris Cole: The current associate head coach at Bryant, Cole has been instrumental in the Bulldogs' recent success. Promoting him could ensure continuity and capitalize on existing relationships within the program.
Tobin Anderson: Remember Fairleigh Dickinson’s stunning upset of Purdue in 2023? Now, he's recently available after parting ways with Iona. Anderson has a track record of success at the mid-major level. His experience could bring a fresh perspective to Bryant's evolving program.
Pat Sellers: The Head Coach of Central Connecticut State, NEC Coach of the Year for a second-straight season, and a Northeast guy who’s turned CCSU from bottom-feeders into a competitive squad in the NEC. He's respected in coaching circles and has recruiting ties across the East Coast. If he can win at CCSU, imagine what he could do with Bryant's resources.
Jamion Christian: If Bryant is looking for a proven program builder with a modern mindset and serious branding chops, Jamion Christian needs to be in the room. A product of the Shaka Smart coaching tree, Christian brings an energetic, player-first approach and a vision that extends beyond just X’s and O’s. He's best known for his time at Mount St. Mary’s, where he turned a struggling program into an NEC contender. Sound familiar?
Bob Walsh: A seasoned coach with deep New England ties, Walsh's understanding of the regional basketball landscape could be invaluable in recruiting and program development.
Brian Blaney: Currently an assistant at Georgetown, Blaney has experience in high-caliber programs. His exposure to top-tier coaching strategies and player development could be a significant asset.
Luke Murray: Assistant at UConn and Son of Bill Murray, yes. But more importantly, he’s been one of the top assistants on a national title-winning staff. Has high-major experience and deep recruiting roots, especially in the Northeast corridor. It could bring instant credibility and spark.
Bob Huggins: Let’s talk chaos. If Huggins wants one last redemption arc, and Bryant is willing to roll the dice, this would be nuclear heat. He’s a Hall of Famer with baggage—but also with gravitas. Highly unlikely, but hey… Smithfield could be the scene of the wildest basketball resurrection story in years.
Bryant’s job isn’t just a launchpad anymore. With the program on the national radar, the right hire could make Smithfield the epicenter of Northeast mid-major hoops. If we’re putting it all together—someone with New England ties, recent success, and recruiting power—you can’t go wrong with Chris Cole, Tobin Anderson, or Pat Sellers. Those three represent different flavors: continuity, prestige, and gritty upside.
Chris Cole is the most deserving pick and the guy who is ready for the next step. He has been fundamental to the team's success, a strong recruiter, and many former players are giving him their vote of confidence. Tobin Anderson is a guy with a pedigree and a guy who can make a splash for this program. Pat Sellers would be an exciting hire and would keep the program stable for years to come. As a Bryant alumnus, Cole is your guy, and it's time for him to get his flowers.
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