Andy Close
BRADFORD, Pa. – Former Youngsville High School boys basketball coach Jesse DeLoof, who guided the Eagles to their best season in 28 years in 2019-20, has been named the new men’s basketball coach at the University of Pittsburgh at Bradford.
(Photo: Jesse DeLoof (right), pictured with 1,000 point scorer Gage Hendrickson last season.)
DeLoof, who played for the Panthers and got his start in coaching at the school as a graduate assistant, led Youngsville to the state playoffs for the first time since 1992 this past season.
Pitt-Bradford sent out a press release Wednesday evening announcing the hire:
Following a nationwide search, the University of Pittsburgh at Bradford has named Jesse DeLoof head men’s basketball coach of the team he used to play for.
DeLoof, who was a member of Pitt-Bradford’s basketball team from 2009 to 2013, will be the university’s seventh men’s basketball coach in the program’s history.
“I am humbled and honored to return to Pitt-Bradford and am proud to lead the Panthers into the future,” said DeLoof, who graduated in 2013. “I’d like to thank Coach Butler, the search committee and President Koverola for this incredible opportunity. This is home, and I’m ready to start the process of winning championships.”
DeLoof rejoins the Pitt-Bradford community after serving as head boys’ basketball coach at Youngsville High School for three years. DeLoof took over the Eagles following a two-win season, and within three years led the team to 20 victories, a winning season for the first time in 15 years.
“I am extremely proud that Jesse accepted our offer to become the head men’s basketball coach,” said Bret Butler, director of intercollegiate athletics and recreation. “Jesse was a very good player and assistant coach for us. He has a passion for college basketball and student athletes and has Pitt-Bradford blood coursing through his veins. I am excited to welcome him aboard.”
During DeLoof’s four years on Pitt-Bradford basketball team, he played in 74 games and started in 55, including all 51 of his last two seasons. He was a part of 49 victories and appeared in four AMCC post-season tournaments.
After DeLoof graduated with a degree in sport and recreation management, he remained a part of the program, serving as an assistant coach for three seasons under Head Coach Britt Moore. While DeLoof was on the team’s staff as an assistant, the team compiled 43 victories and three more appearances in the AMCC Tournament, including one trip to the semi-final round.
“I am beyond thrilled for and proud of Jesse,” Moore said. “Having coached and worked with him, I know he is ready for this opportunity. He was a great assistant and our best recruiter. I am glad he has the chance to take over at his alma mater and leave his mark.”
Coach DeLoof added, “Pitt-Bradford Men’s Basketball is on the clock, it’s time to work!”
