Denver Pioneers to Join WCC in 2026

This will be coach Bergstraser’s first and last Summit League season

Following a disappointing season with Denver, head coach Jeff Welbrun was placed on leave and eventually parted ways with the program. Tim Bergstraser will be entering his first season coaching the Pioneers. Bergstraser had previously coached at Division II Minnesota-State Moorhead and finished with an impressive 75-22 record. Bergstraser also won the NSIC tournament twice and led Minnesota-State Moorhead to the Division II Sweet 16 in his final season. He will be looking to translate his winning ways at the Division I level.

Coach Bergstraser will have the challenge of bringing winning basketball to the Pioneers. There has been a significant roster overhaul, which included bringing many of his players over from Minnesota-State Moorhead. Bergstraser will be looking to finish the program’s tenure in the Summit League on a high note before beginning a new challenge in the WCC. The WCC could be a promising new opportunity for Denver basketball.

Joining the WCC presents an exciting opportunity for Denver

Before the 21st century, Denver spent many years playing Division II basketball before joining Division I, starting with the 1998-99 season. Following an extended run in the Sun Belt Conference and a lone season in the WAC, Denver moved to the Summit League starting with the 2013-14 season. Denver has struggled in Division I, but joining the WCC could transform the program. Entering the WCC represents a unique opportunity for the program to level up significantly in the coming years.

Denver has been successful in other sports such as hockey and lacrosse, but basketball could be next for the Pioneers. Denver has struggled during their time in the Summit League, but another added challenge of playing in the conference is the lack of at-large bids. While the Summit League tournament winner makes the NCAA Tournament, at-large bids are often lacking for other teams. Heading to the WCC will boost the program’s paths to making the NCAA Tournament significantly.

The Last Word

Just days away from the new college basketball season, Denver’s future move to the WCC should not be overlooked. For a struggling program, going to the WCC should lead to an improvement in recruiting. Gonzaga’s departure from the conference also increases the likelihood of future at-large bids. Despite Denver not attaining any postseason success in the Summit League, their move to the WCC signals the intent to grow as a basketball program. The growth of Denver is something worth monitoring this year and for years to come.