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The Denver basketball team is currently playing under interim head coach Shammond Williams. It was an unexpected move that’s only led to questions about the future of the program.
Jeff Wulbrun began the season as the team’s leader, his fourth year on the sidelines for the Pioneers. Last week, however, it was announced that he’d be taking a leave of absence.
Former UNC standout Shammond Williams will take over as interim head coach at University of Denver, school announces, as head coach Jeff Wulbrun will be on leave for the rest of the season.
— Jeff Goodman (@GoodmanHoops) February 21, 2025
Wulbrun has yet to record a winning season in Denver, but his teams have shown growth across the last three campaigns. After taking over for a two-win squad in 2021, his Pioneers have posted win totals of 11, 15, and 17, respectively.
This year, the team took a step back. At just 10-19 on the season, it seems destined for its worst output in the Wulbrun era. With that being said, the Pioneers recently picked up a win over Oral Roberts one game after nearly knocking off 21-win North Dakota State.
“There isn’t a coach in the country that is more optimistic and excited about their team than I am right now.” @JeffWulbrun
Big win tonight heading into a weekend off before the stretch run.#GoPios pic.twitter.com/RbYlJfnLEA
— Denver Men’s Basketball (@DU_MensHoops) February 20, 2025
Things appeared to be headed in the right direction for Denver, and their head coach seemed excited about the future. Two days later, though, his leave of absence was announced. No reason was given for the exit. No timeline was revealed.
Some immediately suspected that he’d be fired at season’s end. In four years, he’s posted a 53-74 overall mark.
Athletic director Josh Berlo was asked about Jeff Wulbrun’s future. He emphatically denied the claims of his dismissal.
Denver athletic director Josh Berlo to @TheFieldOf68 on Jeff Wulbrun’s status:
“We are NOT seeking a new head coach, and no change is planned for next season,” Berlo told @TheFieldOf68.
— Jeff Goodman (@GoodmanHoops) February 26, 2025
Jeff Goodman of The Field of 68 reached out to Berlo. Denver has no plans of making a change in leadership.
While that update is positive for those that want to see Wulbrun continue to coach the Pioneers, it didn’t provide any answers about his absence. We’ll likely learn more of the program’s plans when the season concludes.