MSUM Men's Basketball Coach Emphasizes Player-Led Culture

Jason Kemp discusses continuing to build a strong team dynamic and identity.

Published on Feb. 12, 2026

In a weekly interview, Minnesota State Moorhead men's basketball head coach Jason Kemp discussed his team's tough road trip last weekend and his challenge to the players to take more ownership of the program's culture and identity.

Why it matters

Building a successful college basketball program requires not just strong coaching, but also a cohesive team culture that empowers players. Kemp's approach aims to shift more responsibility to the players themselves, which can lead to greater buy-in and long-term sustainability.

The details

After a difficult road trip, Kemp challenged his players to take more of a leadership role in shaping the team's culture and identity. He wants to transition the program to be more player-led, with the coaching staff providing guidance but allowing the athletes to drive the team's values and standards.

  • The interview took place on February 12, 2026.

The players

Jason Kemp

The head coach of the Minnesota State Moorhead men's basketball team, guiding the program since 2020.

Jace Denman

A reporter who conducts weekly interviews with Coach Kemp about the MSUM men's basketball team.

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What they’re saying

“Shifting the program to a player led program is the challenge I've given the team.”

— Jason Kemp, Head Coach (am1100theflag.com)

What’s next

Coach Kemp will continue working with his players to foster a stronger team culture and identity, with the goal of the players taking more ownership of the program's direction.

The takeaway

Empowering players to shape a team's culture can lead to greater buy-in and long-term success, as Coach Kemp is aiming to do with the MSUM men's basketball program.