ALFRED, NY – The Alfred University men's basketball program has announced the addition of Gus O'Connell to its coaching staff as an assistant coach ahead of the 2026–27 season.

"I can't wait for Coach Gus O'Connell to get started with our program," Alfred University Men's Basketball Head Coach Erich Kaempffe said. "I'd stack his energy, work ethic, and character up against anyone - and I know those qualities will greatly benefit our players. Gus will be a great asset to our basketball program, and Alfred University as a whole."

O'Connell joins Alfred University after spending the previous two seasons as an assistant coach with the SUNY Cortland men's basketball program. During his tenure, the Red Dragons captured back-to-back SUNYAC Championships for the first time in program history.

In the 2024–25 season, Cortland posted a 17–12 overall record and secured the SUNYAC title with a road victory over New Paltz. The Red Dragons advanced to the NCAA Division III Tournament, facing No. 2-ranked NYU in the opening round—marking the program's first NCAA Tournament appearance in nine years.

The following season, Cortland tied a program record with 24 wins, defeating Oswego to claim its second consecutive SUNYAC Championship. The Red Dragons went on to earn a first-round victory over Franklin & Marshall College in the NCAA Division III Tournament, advancing to the Round of 32 for the first time since the 2012–13 season. The coaching staff was subsequently recognized as the SUNYAC Coaching Staff of the Year.

"I'm extremely happy for Coach Gus and this opportunity at Alfred University," SUNY Cortland Men's Basketball Head Coach Maurice Kearney said. "He has been a tremendous part of our program, and his work ethic, basketball mind, and ability to connect with student-athletes will make an immediate impact. Alfred is getting a great coach and an even better person."

In addition to his collegiate coaching experience, O'Connell has served as an AAU head coach with Hoop Group Elite Camps since 2024, where he has been actively involved in player development and mentorship.

"Gus is an incredibly hard worker," Purchase College Men's Basketball Head Coach Jack Dignan said. "He connects well with his players and has strong knowledge of the game. His energy and passion will help make an immediate impact for Coach Kaempffe and the AU Men's Basketball program."

A familiar face in the Alfred community, O'Connell graduated from nearby Alfred State College in 2023 with a bachelor's degree in business administration and a minor in coaching. A three-year member of the men's basketball program, he served as a two-time team captain. Over the course of his collegiate career, O'Connell appeared in 75 games, including 22 starts. Prior to attending Alfred State, O'Connell graduated from Cortland High School.

"I've really enjoyed the opportunities I've had to work with Coach Gus," Colgate University Men's Basketball Assistant Coach Pat Stasiak said. "He's someone who brings positive energy to the gym, genuinely cares about the student-athletes he coaches, and is always willing to learn and grow. Alfred University is getting an assistant coach who will invest in the program and its players, and I'm excited to see Gus take this next step in his career."