Phil Martelli is a distinguished American college basketball coach, renowned for his impactful career primarily at Saint Joseph’s University. Martelli began his coaching journey as an assistant at Widener University before moving to Bishop Kenrick High School. His significant breakthrough came in 1985 when he joined the coaching staff at Saint Joseph’s, where he contributed to the team’s success in the NCAA and NIT tournaments over a decade. In 1995, he was appointed head coach, marking the beginning of a remarkable era.

During his tenure at Saint Joseph’s from 1995 to 2019, Martelli led the Hawks to seven NCAA Tournament appearances and six NIT appearances. His most notable achievement came in the 2003-04 season when he guided the team to an impressive 27-0 regular season record and an Elite Eight finish in the NCAA Tournament. This success earned him the prestigious Naismith College Coach of the Year award, solidifying his reputation as one of the top coaches in college basketball.

Martelli’s coaching prowess was further recognized with multiple Atlantic 10 Coach of the Year awards and a remarkable overall record of 446 wins against 330 losses. His ability to develop talent was evident as he coached future NBA stars like Jameer Nelson and Delonte West, who played pivotal roles in the team’s achievements.

In 2019, Martelli transitioned to the University of Michigan as an associate head coach, where he continued to influence the game and mentor young athletes. His extensive experience and dedication to the sport have made him a respected figure in college basketball, leaving a lasting legacy that inspires future generations of coaches and players alike.