Alex Jensen Named Utah Basketball Head Coach Amid Program Revival Efforts

The University of Utah has reportedly hired Alex Jensen as the new head coach for its men's basketball program, a move seen as a revitalization effort for a team with a storied history but recent struggles. Jensen, a former Utah player who helped lead the Utes to the 1998 national championship game, has spent the last 12 years as an NBA assistant, primarily with the Utah Jazz. His hiring has been met with positive reactions from fans and former players, including Utah Jazz owner Ryan Smith, who expressed excitement about Jensen's return. Former Utes players and coaches have voiced hope that Jensen will bring the right recruiting strategies and staff to rebuild the program. The announcement follows the departure of former head coach Craig Smith, with Jensen being viewed as the leading candidate throughout the hiring process. Jensen's appointment is seen as a homecoming that could potentially restore the program to its former glory.