Alex Jensen Returns to Utah Utes as Head Coach
Alex Jensen, a former assistant coach for the Utah Jazz, is making a triumphant return to his alma mater, the University of Utah. Sources close to the program have confirmed that Jensen will be taking the reins as the new head coach of the Utah Utes men’s basketball team. This move marks a significant shift for Jensen, who has spent over two decades in the NBA, most recently as part of the Dallas Mavericks coaching staff.
A Homecoming for a Utah Utes Alumnus
Having played for the Utes from 1995 to 2000, Jensen brings a wealth of experience and a deep connection to the program. During his time as a player, he showcased his skills in 133 games, making 101 starts and averaging impressive stats of 9.6 points, 6.7 rebounds, and 2.6 assists. His senior year was particularly noteworthy, earning him the titles of Mountain West Player of the Year and first-team All-MWC, coinciding with Utah’s inaugural year in the conference.
Bringing NBA Expertise to College Basketball
With the departure of the previous head coach, Craig Smith, Jensen steps into a challenging yet exciting opportunity to revitalize the Utes’ basketball program. The team’s last appearance in the NCAA tournament dates back to the 2014-15 season, and Jensen aims to inject new energy and expertise into the squad. His extensive coaching tenure in the NBA, notably with the Utah Jazz, where he served as an assistant from 2013 to 2023, positions him well to guide the Utes back to their former glory.
A Legacy of Coaching Excellence
Jensen’s journey from the sidelines of the NBA to the helm of the Utah Utes showcases his dedication to the game and his commitment to fostering talent at all levels. His experience as a player, coupled with his coaching acumen honed in the NBA, sets the stage for an exciting chapter in the Utes’ basketball program. As Jensen embarks on this new chapter, the Utah Utes community eagerly anticipates the impact he will make in reigniting the team’s winning spirit.