Chad O’Donnell was a well-loved coach and agent who died at the age of 53, and the entire college basketball fraternity is in tears. He spent 20-plus years in the college coaching profession, followed by the formation of the Capital Elite Agency.
His love for basketball as well as his sincerity was the driving force that the scores of champions, coaches, and colleagues of the basketball community have always been in his corner.
Chad O’Donnell’s Battle and Legacy
Except for the months before his attack, O’Donnell has been dealing with early-onset NASH (non-alcoholic fatty liver disease) for quite some time. In April, he had a liver transplant, plus a second one after things didn’t go right.
Although he was putting on a brave fight and things were looking better, O’Donnell’s body still gave in due to septic shock in the long run.
Not only did O’Donnell spend over 20 years coaching, but he also fostered his game across multiple prestigious clubs: Murphy, Holy Cross, University of New Hampshire, Robert Morris, Charleston, and Albany.
He even had the role of associate coach most clearly visible in Albany, which was his longest priority. In the 11 years he worked there, the Great Danes won five America East Championships and made it to the NCAA Tournament five times.
In 2015, O’Donnell decided to resign from his position as a coach. However, in 2019, he became the owner of the Capital Elite Agency, where he served as a professional guide and advisor to more than 80 college basketball coaches, helping them with their career development, interviews, and contract negotiations.
The change in O’Donnell’s profession thus enabled him to continue supporting the basketball community in the new field.
Coaching Community Responds
The basketball world has responded with an outpouring of tributes honoring O’Donnell’s memory and impact.
Adam Nelson, a long-time friend and colleague, expressed his grief.
“Chad was truly one of the best people that I have ever known. Would do anything for you as a friend. He leaves behind his wife and 3 kids (who he was so proud of). This is a really sad day. I will miss Chad and all of our conversations about coaching and life. Rest in peace my friend,” Nelson said.
Tom Herrion, who worked with O’Donnell at the College of Charleston, shared his condolences.
“It is with a heavy heart to learn the passing of Chad O’Donnell at such a young age. Chad was on my staff, he was a tireless worker, an impactful coach, but an even better husband & father. Gone too soon, rest in peace, you will be missed,” Herrion said.
It is with a heavy heart to learn the passing of Chad O’Donnell at such a young age. Chad was on my @CofCBasketball staff, he was a tireless worker, an impactful coach, but an even better husband & father. Gone too soon, rest in peace, you will be missed 🙏 pic.twitter.com/yp4ffGBkkj
— Coach Herrion (@CoachTomHerrion) July 4, 2025
Will Brown, O’Donnell’s former head coach at Albany, remembered his longtime assistant.
“So saddened to hear of the passing of my former assistant, Chad O’Donnell,” Brown said. “He was not only a great man & a trusted friend, but also a terrific coach who impacted the lives of so many student-athletes. My thoughts & prayers are with his wife, children, & all who loved him!”
B.J. Dunne showed his support.
“A sad day for the basketball world esp for the small college guys who he truly cared for. Chad didn’t just place clients, he prepared them, believed in them, & found the right fit. In a transactional world, he was genuine & the real deal,” Dunne said.
MORE: EA Sports College Basketball’s Potential Release Pattern After 2028 Announced by Insider
Bruce Hamburger reflected on their long friendship.
“Very sad news on the passing of Chad O’Donnell,” Hamburger said. “Met Chad when he worked our summer camps at Seton Hall when he was a young assistant. Chad was a great friend to many coaches thru the years. Thinking of his family & friends.”
O’Donnell is survived by his wife, Anna, and their three children: Declan, Brayden, and Madeline. A GoFundMe campaign has been established to support his family during this difficult time.