Now age 34, it's his job and goal to get his College of Marin (COM) student-athletes working up the ladder of success, be it on the basketball court or off.
Funny how life sometimes has a way of working out like that.
Taking over the COM program in mid-May from Bruce Furuya, Granucci has plans.
"First and foremost, we want program respectability," he explained. "We won ten games last year and we were in most of the games so we were definitely competitive. We also made the conference tournament for the first time in 15 years so we're using that to propel us to this season.
He added, "Ultimately, I want this to be a program that is a winner, a place to go where you can get better as a student, an athlete and a man.
Granucci is optimistic he will succeed.
"Marin County is a basketball community. People will come out if we have a winner."
His background
Taking time off after high school, Granucci got the basketball bug again. From 1998-2000, he played at City College of San Francisco (CCSF) for Coach Harry Pantazopolous.
His efforts there earned him a scholarship to San Jose State University. That was followed by a year of professional ball in Italy.
Upon returning home, Granucci wasn't sure what he wanted to do next.
"It was a time of reflection" as he described it.
Then, an opportunity appeared to coach a squad of San Francisco fifth and sixth graders alongside his brother and he gave it a shot.
"When I was a player, I never wanted to coach," Granucci recalled. "But I ended up loving it. I found I was passionate about it."
Next came a position as an assistant coach at City College of San Francisco under Justin Labagh. "I talked to him, asking how I could help and was able to work as an assistant. Justin was really helpful, always offering good advice. I want to try and model CCSF."
That was followed by nabbing an opening as an assistant at College of Marin and now is the head man.
This season and beyond
As for this season's squad, Granucci said "I love all my guys."
Asked for particulars about his standout talents, he offered a trio of names.
"6-foot-5 Josh Hayworth, who played for James Forney at Casa Grande High, was a First Team All Conference pick last season. Josh played as a five last year but he'll be a three for us this season. He can really shoot it, is very competitive and has a great motor. He is a great kid to coach."
"Point guard Joey Rodriguez, who also played for James Forney, had a tough transition last year going from high school to college as a point but he's poised to have a good year." Rodriguez stands 6-feet-0.
"Shooting guard Rashaad Allen, who played under Jeff Sickler at Rodriguez High, can shoot and defend and is extremely quick." Allen measures 6-foot-1.
Granucci concluded with, "it's a process. We have it in perspective. We'll get to people saying 'I've never seen College of Marin have that kind of guy.'"
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