The numbers
Logan, Utah, welcomed a new era in men’s basketball as Ben Jacobson was officially hired as the 23rd head coach of the Utah State Aggies on March 30, 2026. Jacobson arrives with an impressive record of 397 wins against 259 losses over his 20-year tenure at the University of Northern Iowa, where he averaged 19.8 wins per season.
During his time at Northern Iowa, Jacobson led his teams to five NCAA Tournament appearances, including a remarkable run to the Sweet 16 in 2010, where they famously defeated the No. 1 seed Kansas. His success in the Missouri Valley Conference is highlighted by being the all-time leader in conference wins with 220, and he was recognized as the Missouri Valley Conference Coach of the Year five times.
Jacobson’s tenure at Northern Iowa was marked by consistent excellence, as his teams secured four regular-season championships. He has also played a pivotal role in developing nearly two dozen players who advanced to professional basketball, showcasing his commitment to nurturing talent.
In a statement following his hiring, Jacobson expressed his gratitude, saying, “I’m thankful for the opportunity to join Utah State as it enters its next chapter in the Pac-12.” His enthusiasm for the program aligns with the vision of Utah State’s athletic director, Cameron Walker, who stated, “Utah State is one of the country’s premier men’s basketball programs, and we needed a leader who embodies that tradition and is committed to building on our rich history.”
Jacobson, a native of Mayville, North Dakota, graduated from the University of North Dakota in 1994 with a bachelor’s degree in physical education. He and his wife, Dawn, are proud parents to two children, Hunter and Tanner, and are eager to become part of the Logan community.
As Jacobson steps into this new role, he brings not only a wealth of coaching experience but also a reputation as a remarkable person and mentor. His former colleagues have praised him, noting, “Ben is not only an exceptional coach but also a truly remarkable person.”
The Utah State community is excited about the future under Jacobson’s leadership, and observers are eager to see how he will build upon the program’s strong legacy. With the Aggies entering a new chapter in the Pac-12, the expectations are high, and the journey ahead promises to be an exciting one.
