Sun Mar 09 03:40:00 UTC 2025: **Utah Names Alex Jensen as New Men’s Basketball Coach**

SALT LAKE CITY — The University of Utah has appointed Alex Jensen as its new men’s basketball head coach, the school announced Thursday. Jensen, a Utah native and former Ute player, returns to Salt Lake City after a successful career in the NBA, most recently as an assistant coach for the Dallas Mavericks.

Jensen, who won Mr. Basketball Utah in 1994 and was a key player on Utah’s 1998 national championship game team, brings extensive experience to the position. He spent a decade as an assistant coach with the Utah Jazz, reaching the NBA playoffs six times, and also served as an assistant at Saint Louis University under legendary coach Rick Majerus.

“This is an exciting day,” said Utah Athletics Director Mark Harlan. “Alex brings tremendous experience and is widely respected for his ability to develop players.” Harlan expressed confidence that Jensen will revitalize the program and re-engage the fan base.

Jensen replaces Craig Smith, who was fired last month after four seasons marked by a 65-62 record and no NCAA tournament appearances. The Utes reached the tournament bubble last season, but ultimately fell short.

Jensen’s appointment follows a similar move by in-state rival BYU, which recently hired Kevin Young. BYU’s program, bolstered by NIL support, is currently experiencing a resurgence, having won seven consecutive games.

Jensen, who previously considered the Utah coaching job in 2021, expressed his gratitude for the opportunity, stating, “My basketball journey has been filled with so many people who have helped shape me… guiding me to this opportunity to lead the Runnin’ Utes basketball program.”

Utah’s men’s basketball program has struggled to reach the NCAA tournament since 2016, aiming to emulate BYU’s recent success. Jensen’s hiring marks a significant step in Utah’s efforts to return to national prominence. Meanwhile, in unrelated news, Javon Small’s 18-point performance led West Virginia to a 71-69 victory over Utah.

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