May 28, 2002

SANTA CLARA, Calif. - Santa Clara University head women's basketball coach Chris Denker has resigned his position to accept the head coaching job at Colorado State University, Director of Athletics Cheryl L. Levick announced today.

Denker, who led the Broncos for the past two seasons, signed a letter of agreement to a four-year contract extension with Santa Clara on April 18, 2002. A long-time assistant prior to becoming head coach, Denker leaves with a 41-18 record, having led SCU to the 2001 West Coast Conference title and a berth in the 2002 NCAA Tournament.

"Chris has done a tremendous job for Santa Clara University, so we are very disappointed to learn of his acceptance of the head coaching position at Colorado State University," Levick said. "Unfortunately, the timing of his resignation is very disrupting to the women's basketball program. Six weeks ago, he signed an appointment letter to be our head coach for the next four years and, with one day's notice, he has resigned."

"Our primary concern must now be for our student-athletes and the incoming recruits," Levick added. "We will move very swiftly with a national search to secure a top individual who will maintain the success and integrity of our women's basketball program."