Notre Dame basketball hires former star as its General Manager

In a groundbreaking move that has sent ripples through the college basketball community, Notre Dame has appointed former All-American and NBA veteran Pat Garrity as the first-ever General Manager for both its men’s and women’s basketball programs. This dual-role appointment marks a significant evolution in the university’s approach to basketball operations, blending Garrity’s extensive experience as a player and executive with a forward-thinking strategy to enhance the programs’ competitiveness and efficiency.

On May 20, 2025, Notre Dame announced that Pat Garrity, a 1998 graduate and standout forward for the Fighting Irish, would assume the newly created position of General Manager for both men’s and women’s basketball teams. In addition to this role, Garrity will serve as the primary sports administrator for the men’s program, overseeing daily operations and strategic planning. This appointment is believed to be one of only two such dual GM roles in college athletics, highlighting Notre Dame’s commitment to innovation in sports management.

Garrity’s return to Notre Dame is seen as a homecoming, as he expressed deep gratitude for the opportunity to contribute to the university that shaped his career. He stated, “At every point in my career and life, Notre Dame has always been a second home for me and my family. The university has shaped who I am, and its values resonate deeply within me.”

Pat Garrity’s journey from a college star to an NBA executive is a testament to his versatility and understanding of the game. During his time at Notre Dame, Garrity was named Big East Player of the Year in 1997 and earned consensus second-team All-American honors in 1998. Standing at 6-foot-9, he was known for his scoring ability, particularly as a three-point shooter, and his leadership on the court.

After being drafted 19th overall by the Milwaukee Bucks in the 1998 NBA Draft, Garrity played for the Phoenix Suns and the Orlando Magic, accumulating over 4,000 points in his NBA career. Following his playing days, he transitioned into front-office roles, serving as an assistant general manager for the Detroit Pistons from 2016 to 2020. His experience in player development, roster construction, and organizational strategy has equipped him with a unique skill set that he now brings to Notre Dame.

In his dual role, Garrity will oversee a range of responsibilities aimed at enhancing the performance and sustainability of Notre Dame’s basketball programs. His duties will include:

• Strategic Planning: Developing and implementing long-term goals for both men’s and women’s teams, aligning with the university’s mission and values.
• Personnel Management: Collaborating with coaches and staff to ensure optimal team composition and player development.
• Budget Oversight: Managing financial resources to support program needs while ensuring fiscal responsibility.
• Fundraising and Revenue Generation: Identifying opportunities for financial support and maximizing revenue streams to sustain program growth.
• Alumni Relations: Engaging with former players and supporters to build a strong, connected community.
• Facility Management: Ensuring that training and competition venues meet the highest standards for performance and safety.

Garrity’s approach emphasizes collaboration, innovation, and a commitment to excellence, aiming to position Notre Dame as a leader in collegiate basketball.

The appointment of Pat Garrity is expected to have a profound impact on both the men’s and women’s basketball teams. His extensive experience in player development and organizational strategy will provide valuable insights into team building and performance enhancement. Moreover, his leadership is anticipated to foster a culture of excellence and accountability, motivating players and staff to strive for continuous improvement.

Under Garrity’s guidance, both programs are poised to benefit from a more cohesive and strategic approach to operations, potentially leading to improved recruitment, player development, and overall performance on the court.

As Pat Garrity embarks on this new chapter in his career, the Notre Dame community eagerly anticipates the positive changes his leadership will bring to the basketball programs. His unique blend of experience as a former player and NBA executive positions him to make significant contributions to the success and growth of Notre Dame basketball.

Fans, alumni, and supporters are encouraged to stay informed about upcoming events and initiatives by visiting the official Notre Dame Athletics website and following the basketball programs on social media. With Garrity at the helm, the future of Notre Dame basketball looks promising, filled with potential and excitement.