PUEBLO, Colo. (July 1, 2026) – Colorado State University Pueblo has signed head men's basketball coach
Zach Ruebesam to a five-year contract extension that will keep him leading the ThunderWolves through the 2030-31 season., Vice President for Athletics and Strategic Partnerships
Dr. Paul Plinske announced Wednesday.
"I am incredibly grateful to President Dr. (Rhonda) Epper, Dr. (Paul) Plinske, and the entire University leadership team for their belief in our vision for Pack Men's Basketball. Hallie and I have loved becoming part of the Pueblo community, and we are proud to call Pueblo home," Ruebesam said. "Our staff is committed to developing outstanding young men, providing a first-class student-athlete experience, and representing CSU Pueblo with pride both on and off the court. Every day, we strive to build a program rooted in trust, responsibility, and citizenship while fostering a culture of work that reflects the values of our university and community.
"I am excited to continue investing in our student-athletes and building relationships throughout CSU Pueblo, Southern Colorado, and the state of Colorado. The support we've received from our alumni, students, fans, and community has been incredible. We look forward to continuing to grow together in the years ahead."
Ruebesam's new contract comes on the heels of CSU Pueblo's best men's basketball season in 29 years. The ThunderWolves finished with a 22-8 overall record and achieved the program's seventh 20-win season since becoming a four-year school in 1962-63.
The Pack posted a 15-5 record in Rocky Mountain Athletic Conference play and tied for second place in the league and that was the best conference finish since tying for second in back-to-back years in 1987-88 and 1988-89 and also won its first postseason game in 11 years with a 72-63 win in the quarterfinal round of the RMAC Tournament against Colorado School of Mines in Massari Arena. Ruebesam accomplished the historic season in his first year as CSU Pueblo's head coach.
"Zach's leadership, vision, commitment and dedication to our student-athletes have been extraordinary, and the results speak for themselves," Dr. Plinske said. "While his success on the court has been remarkable, his impact extends far beyond basketball. Since arriving at CSU Pueblo, Zach has embraced our University and the Pueblo community, building relationships that have generated unprecedented philanthropic support for our program and created lasting opportunities for our student-athletes. He is an exceptional leader, and we are excited about the future under his continued leadership."
Ruebesam will begin his second season at the helm of the ThunderWolves when CSU Pueblo opens the 2026-27 season on Nov. 13 against Midwestern State in Massari Arena. Tip-off is scheduled for 6 p.m.
TRANSACTIONS: CSU Pueblo signed head men's basketball coach Zach Ruebesam to a five-year contract extension through the 2030-31 season.
