STEVENS POINT, Wis. – UW-Stevens Point associate head men's basketball coach Kent Dernbach has accepted the interim head coach job at UW-La Crosse, the Eagles' athletic department announced on Tuesday (Oct. 3).  Dernbach served as UWSP's interim head coach last season, guiding the Pointers to an 8-5 record.
 
"I would like to thank coach (Bob) Semling, the current and former team members, their families and the outstanding community for allowing me to be a part of this first-class basketball program," said Dernbach.  "The memories that my wife and I have had will remain vivid for the remainder of our lives."
 
Dernbach helped the Pointers to four NCAA Tournaments and a National Championship in 2015.  UWSP went 117-38 over five-plus seasons with Dernbach as an assistant coach.
 
"Being able to work under one of the best coaches in the country, regardless of level, the last six years has given me the ability to take on this opportunity at UWL."
 
"Growing up and following the WIAC, I realize how special this league is and the quality of players and coaches that exists in this conference," continued Dernbach. "I am extremely excited to take the next step in my coaching career at such a great institution as UW-La Crosse."
 
Dernbach came to UWSP from Northern Illinois University, where he was the director of basketball operations for three years.  Prior to NIU, Dernbach spent two seasons at George Mason University and two years at Marymount University.
 
An Almond, Wis., native, Dernbach led Carthage to a 46-8 record, two CCIW championships and the 2002 NCAA Division III Final Four as a two-year letterwinner for the Red Men.  He graduated with a bachelor's degree in sport management and psychology from Carthage in May 2004 and completed his master's degree in physical activity and educational services from The Ohio State University in June 2006.