Sundance Wicks Lands 'Dream Job' at Wyoming After One Season as UWGB Men's Basketball Coach

Just one year after reviving the fortunes of the University of Wisconsin-Green Bay (UWGB) Phoenix, Sundance Wicks is heading back to his roots. Wicks, who was named Horizon League Coach of the Year after a remarkable turnaround season, has been named the new head coach of the Wyoming Cowboys.

UWGB Men's Basketball Coach

This move marks a homecoming for Wicks, a Gillette, Wyoming native. Prior to his successful stint at UWGB, Wicks spent three seasons as an assistant coach under Jeff Linder at Wyoming, cultivating a deep understanding of the program and the passionate Wyoming fanbase.

"This is truly a dream job for me," Wicks said at his introductory press conference. "I've always cherished my time in Wyoming, and to have the opportunity to lead this program as head coach is an incredible honor. I can't wait to get started and build on the strong foundation that's already in place."

Wicks inherits a Wyoming program fresh off an NCAA Tournament appearance under Linder. However, Linder's departure to become an assistant coach at Texas Tech left a void that needed to be filled quickly. Enter Wicks, whose impressive debut season at UWGB made him an instant hot commodity.

At UWGB, Wicks took over a team that had finished a dismal 3-29 the year before. With a blend of tactical acumen, motivational leadership, and a knack for player development, Wicks orchestrated a remarkable turnaround. The Phoenix finished the 2023-24 season with an 18-14 record, exceeding expectations and earning Wicks Coach of the Year honors.

"We're thrilled to welcome Sundance Wicks back to the Wyoming family," said Wyoming Athletic Director Scotteniably, Wicks' familiarity with the program, the conference (Mountain West), and the recruiting landscape in the region were major factors in our decision. But more importantly, his coaching philosophy, work ethic, and ability to connect with players truly impressed us."

Wicks' coaching style emphasizes a fast-paced, offensive attack that prioritizes spacing and player movement. This approach aligns well with the exciting brand of basketball Wyoming fans have come to expect. While Wicks will undoubtedly implement his own system, he also recognizes the value of building upon the success established by Linder.

"Coach Linder did a fantastic job here," Wicks acknowledged. "There's a lot we can learn from his approach, and I certainly plan to maintain some continuity with what's been working. But we'll also put our own stamp on things and build a program that reflects my coaching philosophy."

Wicks' arrival has generated a wave of optimism in Laramie. Fans are excited about the prospect of a young, energetic coach leading the Cowboys. Players, meanwhile, are eager to learn from Wicks' system and contribute to the program's continued success.

There will undoubtedly be challenges ahead. Replacing key departures and navigating the ever-competitive Mountain West Conference will require strategic maneuvering. However, with his coaching acumen, knowledge of the program, and undeniable passion, Sundance Wicks appears to have all the tools necessary to thrive in his "dream job" at Wyoming.