California State University, Sacramento Athletic Director Debby Colberg named Jerome Jenkins interim head men’s basketball coach, it was announced today.

“I am of the opinion that what this basketball program needs at this time is a coach who can grow with the program,” Colberg said. “By elevating Jerome, we have a coach who is not only keenly aware of the challenges a head coach will face in this program, but one who is excited about the opportunity, as well as confident in his ability to make this program successful.”

A native of Los Angeles, Jenkins was largely credited for installing the Hornets’ defense that finished the season ranked No. 1 in the Big Sky Conference in turnover margin and second in the league in scoring defense (behind only NCAA tournament-bound Northern Arizona).

After posting an 8-6 start to begin the 1999-2000 season, the Hornets finished the year with a 9-18 overall record and a 3-12 mark in Big Sky play. The nine wins last season were the most by a Hornet men’s basketball team since the program made the move to the NCAA Division I ranks in 1991.

“The men’s basketball program has made some strides over the last year and it’s my belief that we do not need to start from the beginning again,” Colberg said. “By elevating Jerome to interim head coach, I believe we can build on the momentum last season’s squad generated and avoid some of the disruptions to the program’s continuity that might be created by going outside of the staff to hire a head coach.”

Jenkins, who oversaw the day-to-day operations of the basketball office this past year, joined the Hornet staff in the summer of 1999 after having served two years as Eastern Washington University’s backcourt coach and lead recruiter. He also served as the coordinator of scouting and financial aid while with the Eagles’ program.

Prior to his time in the Eastern Washington program, Jenkins spent four years as a member of the Diablo Valley College coaching staff (two years as an assistant coach and two years as associate head coach). He began his coaching career in Denver, Colo., serving one year as an assistant at his alma mater Regis University.

“Jerome is a person of strong character and has earned the respect of his teammates, fellow coaches and the entire athletics staff,” Colberg said. “I believe the men’s basketball program will be best served by allowing him to continue to coach and mentor this squad next season.”

Jenkins replaces former head coach Tom Abatemarco, who submitted his resignation on Mar. 13.