Martelli, 44, led the Rams to a stunning 82-78 overtime victory over UNC during the first round of the NCAA tournament last week - marking their first in a decade. Unfortunately for VCU, their tournament run ended after they took a 76-55 beatdown from Illinois in the Round of 32.
VCU finished with a 28-8 record - second-most wins (29) in school history - and won 17 of their last 18 under Martelli's first season with the team. He had previously coached at Bryant University for two seasons (2023-2024), the latter of which he led them to an American East Conference Championship and a tournament birth.
"Coach Martelli showed all season that he embodies the leadership qualities we want in our head men's basketball coach," said VCU athletic director Ed McLaughlin. "He made history in his first season by winning the Atlantic 10 Championship and an NCAA Tournament game, and continued the standard of excellence that we have created and come to expect. I want to ensure we keep Coach Martelli and give him the opportunity to build on the amazing foundation we have solidified at VCU with three A-10 Championships in the last four years and appearances in 12 of the past 15 NCAA Tournaments."
"I am grateful to the players and the staff who believed in the vision and worked tirelessly to ensure its continued success," said Martelli. "We are very fortunate to be at such a storied program and look forward to continuing our short- and long-term pursuit of adding to its rich legacy. Go Rams!"