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Bleymaier fires Jensen, women’s coach quits
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Athletic Director Gene Bleymaier has announced changes in both the men and women’s basketball programs. Rod Jensen has been removed as head men’s basketball coach, while Trisha Stevens resigned as head women’s basketball coach.
Jensen, who has one year remaining on his contract, was removed after posting a 13-17 record and a seventh-place finish in the Western Athletic Conference this season. The Broncos season came to an end Thursday night at the hands of Tulsa in the quarterfinals of the WAC Tournament.
During his seven-year career as head coach at Boise State, Jensen compiled a 109-93 record but saw his team finish with losing records during two of the last three seasons. Jensen’s best year came during the 1998-99 season when he led the Broncos to a 21-8 record, a Big West Eastern Division Championship, and a runner-up finish in the Big West Conference Tournament.
Jensen was the fifth basketball coach in Boise State’s 34 years as a four-year institution and the 16th head coach since the school’s founding in 1932. Jensen spent 12 years as an assistant coach at Boise State before being named to replace Bobby Dye on August 17, 1995, as head coach. Jensen’s 109 victories rank second in Boise State history.
“I commend Rod on his loyalty and commitment to Boise State over the last 19 years,” Bleymaier said. “In the best interest of the program I believe a change is warranted.”
Stevens served as women’s basketball coach for six years during which time she compiled a 77-93 record. During her six-year tenure at Boise State she posted one winning season, four losing seasons and one 14-14 season.
This year Stevens and the Broncos finished with a 10-20 record and an eighth-place finish in the Western Athletic Conference. The women won their conference tournament opener in overtime over Fresno State before losing to Louisiana Tech Wednesday night in the quarterfinals of the WAC Tournament.
Stevens became the fourth head women’s basketball coach at Boise State on May 10, 1996, succeeding June Daugherty. The 1997-98 season, her second as head coach, was her most successful. Stevens led the Broncos to a 19-11 finish, a Big West Eastern Division Championship, and a WNIT first-round appearance.
Before moving into her head coaching duties, Stevens served the Broncos as an assistant coach for three years.
“I know that this is the best decision for myself and my family and also for the future of the Boise State program,” Stevens stated. “I thank the University and Gene Bleymaier for the opportunity to coach here. I have no doubt that the returning players and incoming freshmen will have great success in the future.”
“I appreciate the hard work and effort that Trisha has given Boise State,” Bleymaier added. A search to replace both Stevens and Jensen will begin immediately.
Bronco Sports Information
