Colorado Mesa University’s men’s basketball program enjoyed a breakthrough season a year ago, finishing 21‑11 and earning berths in both the RMAC Tournament title game and the NCAA Tournament.
The success was short‑lived, however, as veteran head coach Mike Dunlap announced his resignation after the final game, opening the door for a new era under Ken DeWeese.
A Fresh Coaching Vision
Ken DeWeese, the newly appointed head coach, has made it clear that rebuilding the roster is his top priority. In his own words, he is searching for “young men of great character” who understand what it takes to win.
Only two players from the previous squad will return: guard Jaylen Pitman and center Ben Kaye. The remainder of the roster will be assembled through a combination of six incoming freshmen and an eight‑player transfer portal class.
The freshmen class features guards Walker Asp, CJ Willenborg, Alfonso Medina, JD Bradford and Cole Johnson, while the transfer additions bring size and experience in the form of Ryan Weber, Aidan Triplet and Drew Larson. Other notable transfers include Ryan Engebretsen, Tait Spencer and Leif Spencer, who bring Division I and junior college pedigree as well as NCAA Tournament experience.
DeWeese’s recruiting strategy reached across the country, tapping into pipelines at schools such as Northern Colorado, College of the Redwoods, Odessa College, Alaska Anchorage, Fruita Monument High School, Panola College, Yuba College and Niagara University. Each of those programs contributed prospects who fit the coach’s vision of toughness and character.
With the new roster now taking shape, the program anticipates a competitive future. Further details on the incoming class will be released in the coming days, and fans will be watching closely as the team integrates its new talent under DeWeese’s leadership.