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Jeff Judkins, a longtime assistant coach at the University of Utah, Monday accepted a position as the director of basketball operations at BYU. He is expected to assume his new responsibilities beginning July 1.
“I have finalized my decision to leave the University of Utah,” Judkins said in a prepared statement. “As with any career decision, this has not been easy, but it has been thorough. Every aspect as to what is best for my family and my career has been considered. I have enjoyed a wonderful 10 years at Utah and feel very fortunate to have been part of a highly successful basketball program. I love our players and I am very proud of what has been accomplished. I want to thank the administration, the staff, and especially Coach Majerus for the opportunity I have had to develop as a coach and person. I will always cherish my experiences as a player and coach at the University of Utah.”
Judkins, who joined the Utah coaching staff in 1989, was a three-time first-team All-Western Athletic Conference selection for Utah from 1974-78 where he averaged 16.1 points per game and finished sixth on Utah’s all-time scoring list. He went on to enjoy a five-year NBA career with the Boston Celtics, Portland Trailblazers, Detroit Pistons and Utah Jazz.
“As I have explored the options available to me,” continued Judkins, “I have reaffirmed my desire to stay involved with college athletics, particularly with basketball. I am pleased to announce today my acceptance of the Director of Basketball Operations position at BYU. I will be working with both the men’s and women’s programs. I am confident that I can assist Coach Cleveland and Coach Shippen in their rebuilding efforts and at the same time broaden my experience and further my career.”
Judkins acknowledged that moving from Utah to BYU may focus some attention on the competitive aspects between Utah and BYU athletics.
“I can only say that both Utah and BYU are very fine universities,” explained Judkins. “I am confident that I will enjoy a successful transition as others have before me. I very much appreciate the support of my family and friends throughout this process. I look forward to a new challenge and to working with Coach Cleveland and Coach Shippen, their staffs, the players, and the BYU community.”
Steve Cleveland, BYU’s men’s basketball coach, said that Judkins will provide administrative support in a number of areas, including academic advisement, player relations, scheduling, game management, coordinating on-campus recruiting, consulting, and serving as a liaison to the newly formed Student Athlete Center.
Judkins, and BYU and University of Utah officials and coaches were unavailable for further comment.
