Chris Gerlufsen promoted to head coach at San Francisco

A day after Todd Golden left San Francisco for Florida, the Dons have a new head coach and it’s a familiar face. Like they did with Golden, USF is promoting from within and tapping associate head coach Chris Gerlufsen to be its next leader.

“We are extremely thankful for the foundation Coach Golden has provided for USF and the men’s basketball program and we wish him nothing but success in his future endeavors,” said AD Joan McDermott. “Having had the opportunity to observe Coach Gerlufsen on the bench this season as well at Hawai’i and San Diego, we are thrilled to have his leadership and expertise for our student-athletes as we aim to continue our success both on and off the court.”

Gerlufsen just completed his first season at San Francisco after spending two seasons at Hawaii. During his time with the Rainbow Warriors, he spent 13 games as interim head coach, going 8-5.

“My time here on the Hilltop has been nothing short of spectacular thus far,” Gerlufsen said. “I’m indebted to Coach Golden for his leadership and friendship and I know he will have continued success at the University of Florida. I am ready to get to work immediately with our players to build on the foundation that has been laid as we will strive to continue to compete for West Coast Conference championships and national recognition.”

The Dons made their first NCAA Tournament appearance in more than 20 years this season after winning 20+ games for the fifth time in the last six years.

“Much of the success we had this season was because of the addition of Chris to our staff,” Golden said in the release. “He is a great man, who is also an outstanding basketball coach. There is no doubt in my mind that he will continue leading this program on its upward trajectory, and continue taking the Dons to new heights. Chris will be a fantastic leader for this program moving forward.”

credit to San Francisco Athletics for the image