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Logan Today
By the People, for the People
Jacobson Aims to Elevate Utah State Basketball in New Pac-12 Era
Veteran coach Ben Jacobson takes over Aggies program with goal of reaching NCAA Tournament's second weekend
Apr. 1, 2026 at 12:05am
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Utah State University has hired Ben Jacobson as its new head basketball coach, marking the fourth time in six years the Aggies have introduced a new leader for the program. Jacobson, who spent the past 20 seasons at Northern Iowa, is tasked with continuing Utah State's recent run of NCAA Tournament appearances while also elevating the team's performance in the more competitive Pac-12 Conference.
Why it matters
Utah State has made the NCAA Tournament a school-record four straight years, but the Aggies haven't reached the Sweet 16 in 56 years. Jacobson, who led Northern Iowa to six conference titles and five NCAA Tournament berths, is expected to build on that recent success and help Utah State become a consistent contender in the newly expanded Pac-12.
The details
Jacobson was hired on Monday after 20 years at Northern Iowa, where he compiled 397 career wins. Utah State athletic director Cameron Walker praised Jacobson as 'a proven winner' and 'a program builder' whose teams reflect 'discipline, toughness and accountability.' Jacobson's first priority is meeting with the current Aggie players to determine their plans, as many could enter the transfer portal. With a $1.2 million annual salary, Jacobson will be expected to guide Utah State to the NCAA Tournament and beyond, with the goal of reaching the Sweet 16 for the first time since 1970.
- Jacobson was introduced as Utah State's new head coach on Tuesday, April 1, 2026.
- Utah State has made the NCAA Tournament a school-record four straight years, including a run to the second round this past season.
The players
Ben Jacobson
The new head basketball coach at Utah State University, hired after 20 successful seasons leading the Northern Iowa program.
Cameron Walker
The athletic director at Utah State University, who praised Jacobson as 'a proven winner' and 'a program builder.'
What they’re saying
“I cannot tell you how excited I am and how proud I am to be part of Aggie Nation.”
— Ben Jacobson, Head Basketball Coach, Utah State University
“He's a proven winner. More than that, he's a program builder, a developer of people. He's a coach whose teams reflect discipline, toughness and accountability.”
— Cameron Walker, Athletic Director, Utah State University
What’s next
Jacobson's first order of business will be meeting with the current Utah State players to determine their plans for the upcoming season, as many could enter the transfer portal.
The takeaway
Jacobson's hiring represents Utah State's latest effort to elevate its basketball program and build on its recent NCAA Tournament success. With his proven track record at Northern Iowa and a mandate to guide the Aggies to the Sweet 16 for the first time in over 50 years, Jacobson faces high expectations as he takes over the reins of the program.
