Behind the Scenes with Utah Women's Basketball Coach Ryan Larsen
SALT LAKE CITY – As the 2025-26 season looms on the horizon, Utah women’s basketball stands poised for a fresh chapter. Within the program, Assistant Coach Ryan Larsen has emerged as a noteworthy presence, injecting both passion and experience. Having joined Head Coach Gavin Petersen’s staff in December 2024, Larsen’s transition from the University of Wyoming is more than just a career move; it’s a heartfelt continuation of his coaching journey. “Play hard and have fun,” he quips—a mantra rooted in his childhood days and a guiding light in his professional path.
A Promising Transition
Larsen’s arrival in Salt Lake City was motivated by more than just career prospects. “I was drawn here to compete at an elite level,” he elaborates, reflecting on his desires to participate in the NCAA tournaments with the Utes. The allure of the community itself played a pivotal role, where he and his wife, Juli, envision a life surrounded by friends and the charm of Salt Lake City.
Coaching with Heart
At the core of Larsen’s philosophy is an appreciation for the influences that shaped him. Reflecting on his youth coach’s impact, he emphasizes the joy and camaraderie inherent to the sport. His dedication is palpable, suggesting that coaching is less a job and more a calling. “Before college, I wanted to teach and be a high school basketball coach,” he shares, highlighting how dreams transformed into a collegiate coaching reality.
Guiding Through Adversity
With seasoned wisdom, Larsen embraces setbacks with a level-headed approach. Viewing losses as learning opportunities, he focuses on film analysis to highlight areas of improvement while celebrating positive performances. His mature outlook, distilled in the phrase, “It’s never as good as it looks and it’s never as bad as it seems,” offers a blueprint for resilience and growth.
Cherished Moments and Future Dreams
For Larsen, coaching transcends victories on the court—it’s about the enduring relationships cultivated along the way. He recounts with pride the friendships formed with players and colleagues, moments of sheer exhilaration like Matyson Wilke’s buzzer-beater against BYU, and dreams of a serene future. If granted a wish, a cabin near a mountain lake tops his list, envisioning a sanctuary for both him and a pack of rescue dogs.
As Utah women’s basketball gears up for an exhilarating season, fans are encouraged to rally behind the Utes. “Competitiveness and a high motor,” Larsen states, are pivotal traits he seeks in future team members, aligning perfectly with the tenacity and ambition that define this promising period in Utah basketball history.
To join the excitement, fans can purchase season tickets for $75 at https://utahutes.evenue.net/list/WB and follow the Utes on social media for updates and highlights.
