Alex Jensen Appointed Utah Basketball Head Coach

Alex Jensen, a former Utah basketball star and current Dallas Mavericks assistant coach, has been named the new head men's basketball coach at the University of Utah, succeeding Craig Smith. Jensen, who played under the legendary Rick Majerus and was part of the Utah team that reached the 1998 national championship game, brings extensive NBA experience, having spent a decade with the Utah Jazz. His coaching career began at Saint Louis University, followed by a successful tenure with the Canton Charge in the NBA G-League. Jensen was considered for the Utah job in 2021 but withdrew his name, paving the way for Smith's hiring. The University of Utah aims to replicate the success of in-state rival BYU by hiring an NBA coach, hoping Jensen can revitalize the program and return it to NCAA tournament contention. His NBA background and connection to the local community make him a promising choice for the Utes' rebuilding efforts.