SALT LAKE CITY (AP) — The University of Utah made a significant move by hiring Alex Jensen, an assistant coach from the Dallas Mavericks, as the new head coach for its men’s basketball team on Thursday. Jensen, the top choice for the Utes, steps in after Craig Smith’s dismissal in late February, concluding his fourth season at Utah. With 12 seasons of experience as an NBA assistant coach, Jensen spent a decade with the Utah Jazz before transitioning to Dallas in 2023. This appointment marks his return to the helm, as he previously led the Canton Charge in the NBA D-League from 2011 to 2013.
A former player at Utah during Rick Majerus’s tenure, Jensen showcased his skills on the court for the Utes from 1994 to 1995, as well as from 1997 to 2000 following a hiatus for missionary work. Amassing 1,279 points and 896 rebounds over four seasons, Jensen’s standout senior year earned him first-team All-MWC accolades, averaging 13.1 points, 7.5 rebounds, and 3.1 assists per game.
Transitioning from his NBA and D-League roles, Jensen returns to collegiate coaching after previously serving as an assistant under Majerus at Saint Louis from 2007 to 2011. Tasked with revitalizing the Utes and making them competitive in the Big 12 Conference, Jensen aims to guide the team back to NCAA Tournament success. Utah’s last NCAA Tournament appearance was in the 2015-16 season, with a solitary NIT showing during Smith’s tenure.
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