June 4, 2013

2013 Coaching Changes

Stephenson Fired at Wichita State

Gene Stephenson, the head coach at Wichita State for the past 36 seasons, has been fired by the school.

Stephenson posted a record of 1,837-675-3 during his time with the Shockers. He is second on the all-time list for Division I career wins. Stephenson led the Shockers to the Missouri Valley Conference title and a trip to the NCAA Tournament this year, their first regional appearance since 2009. WSU finished the season with a record of 39-28, including 15-6 in the MVC.

Stephenson led WSU to a national championship in 1989, one of seven trips to the College World Series. The Shockers claimed 20 MVC regular season titles and 18 tourney crowns. Stephenson coached 54 All-Americans.

Assistant coach Brent Kemnitz will handle the daily operation of the program until a new head coach is hired. WSU is attempting to extend the contract of Kemnitz, which current runs through the 2014 season. Kemnitz has removed himself as a candidate to be head coach.

A national search will be conducted for the new head coach.