Ithaca College Men's Basketball

Head Coach

Waleed Farid

Contact: wfarid@ithaca.edu

Basketball Staff Contacts

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About Ithaca College Basketball

Ithaca's program under head coach Waleed Farid builds players who can function in a half-court, possession-oriented system. The Bombers operate in the Liberty League, a conference that demands efficient decision-making and defensive intensity. This isn't a run-and-gun environment—it's methodical, basketball-smart basketball. Farid develops guards who can run pick-and-roll offense and forwards who understand spacing. The roster typically features players who excel at secondary creation and transition defense. Ithaca doesn't recruit NBA-caliber athletes; it recruits complementary pieces who understand their role and execute it consistently. Ball movement is a prerequisite. Defensive versatility matters. The program values low-turnover guards and frontcourt players who can pass out of the post. Academics integrate into recruitment here—Ithaca isn't separating student from athlete. Expect a coaching staff that values character and basketball IQ equally. The Liberty League itself is competitive year-to-year; programs like Colgate and Union stay sharp, making regular-season wins meaningful. If you're a role player who wants to compete in a structured, defensive-minded program where consistent effort gets rewarded with playing time, Ithaca fits the profile. The Bombers won't promise you stardom; they'll promise you development within a system and a real shot to contribute. Every serious recruiting conversation starts with preparation. Florida Coastal Prep—located in Fort Walton Beach, FL—trains post-grad and high school players to compete at the college level and attract the right attention. See if it's the right fit at floridacoastalprep.com or /apply/.

D3 basketball is about finding the right combination of competitive play, academics, and fit. Because there are no athletic scholarships at this level, understanding the honest differences between divisions ensures you're making the right choice for your college career.

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What Recruits Should Know About Liberty League Basketball

D3 programs like Ithaca College do not offer athletic scholarships, but that doesn't mean attendance is unaffordable. D3 schools use academic merit aid, need-based financial aid, and institutional grants to build competitive rosters. Coaches recruit players who genuinely want to be at their institution — fit matters more at this level than at any other.

The Liberty League competes at a high D3 level, and players who thrive here are committed to both their sport and their academics. Coaching staffs watch film year-round but have more limited evaluation budgets than D1 programs. Reaching out directly with strong academic credentials, updated film, and a clear interest in the school's academic programs significantly improves your chances of receiving an offer.

No Athletic Scholarships Academic Aid Available Fit & Academics First

Coach Connections That Open Doors to Ithaca College

FCP's coaching staff maintains relationships with programs across D3 — built through years of placing players at the college level. When an FCP coach calls a staff member at Ithaca College, that call gets returned. Those coach-to-coach referrals are often what converts a prospect from "film received" to "offer extended."

Our post-graduate program leverages those connections to create real recruiting opportunities for players who have done the work to be ready. Apply to FCP and join a program with a track record of college placements.

Whether you're a current high school player exploring options through our high school program or a graduate looking for a post-grad year, FCP provides the coaching, competition, and college placement support to help you reach programs like Ithaca College.

FCP Has Helped Players Reach Every Level, Including D3

Our track record of placing players at D3 programs is built one athlete at a time. FCP alumni compete across the country at programs with the same standards as Ithaca College. Your path starts with applying and committing to the process.

Research compiled by the FCP recruiting staff · Last updated April 2026

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