A New Chapter for Wagner Basketball
Tracy McGrady, the Hall of Fame guard known for his scoring prowess and versatile play, has accepted a strategic advisory position with Wagner College’s men’s basketball program. In this capacity he will guide the team’s marketing strategy, assist in player development and help construct sustainable Name, Image, and Likeness (NIL) frameworks that can benefit both athletes and the school.
McGrady’s son, Laymen McGrady, is already on the roster as a freshman forward, giving the elder McGrady a unique family connection to the program. The elder McGrady says the experience feels like coming full circle, blending his love for the game with a commitment to nurture the next generation of talent.
Beyond the campus, McGrady continues to expand his media footprint, serving as an NBA analyst for NBC and co‑hosting the “Cousins” podcast with Vince Carter. He will juggle those responsibilities with his new advisory duties, aiming to bring a fresh, entertainment‑driven perspective to college basketball.
His arrival adds Wagner to a growing list of institutions that have tapped former NBA standouts for leadership roles. The move follows John Wall’s advisory stint at Howard, Shaquille O’Neal’s work at Sacramento State, Steph Curry’s engagement with Davidson, and Trae Young’s involvement at Oklahoma, illustrating a broader trend of professional players shaping college programs.
Wagner’s recent campaign saw the team finish 14‑17 under first‑year head coach Dwan McMillan, who praised McGrady’s willingness to invest in the program’s long‑term vision. McMillan highlighted the coach’s focus on both athletic development and life‑skill building for the student‑athletes.
Future Outlook
Looking ahead, McGrady hopes his involvement will attract more resources and visibility to Wagner, helping the program compete more effectively in the Northeast Conference. He envisions a future where the college’s athletes can leverage NIL opportunities while receiving mentorship from someone who has navigated the NBA’s elite stage.