Earlier this year, Boeheim announced he’ll retire from coaching in three years. At that time, in 2018, Hopkins will take over as the head basketball coach. He’s been on the Orange staff in some capacity since 1996. He played basketball at Syrcause from 1989-1993 and was a captain his senior season.
MORE: SN’s early top 25 | College hoops then and now | ACC basketball icons
Hopkins was also a court coach for Team USA in 1998, 2000, 2001, 2010 and 2012.
This was a move many expected, but it secures Hopkins’ future and answers questions some recruits may have had about the program’s direction with Boeheim getting ready to retire. Last spring, Hopkins was linked to the Oregon State head coaching vacancy, but will be sticking around the program for years to come.
“Mike has truly earned this honor through his hard work, dedication and commitment to our program for more than 20 years,” Boeheim said in the release. “There is no one more ready or prepared to carry on the success of Syracuse basketball than Mike Hopkins.”
