Western Michigan fires coach DJ Stephens after 4 seasons

Field Level Media|published: Sun 8th March, 12:22 2026

Ohio State Buckeyes guard John Mobley Jr. (0) shoots the ball against the Western Michigan Broncos in the second half of the NCAA basketball game at Value City Arena on Thursday, Nov. 20, 2025 in Columbus, Ohio.

Western Michigan fired head coach DJ Stephens on Sunday morning after four seasons.

Stephens, 54, landed his first head-coaching job in 2022 after a long run as an assistant coach under Tom Izzo at Michigan State.

The Broncos struggled under his watch, however. They were 42-84 during his four seasons at the helm.

Western Michigan lost 12 of their final 15 games to finish with a 10-21 overall record. The Broncos were 4-14 to finish in a tie for 11th place in the Mid-American Conference.

Sunday's news comes as Western Michigan is moving its men's and women's basketball teams and hockey team into a new, $300-million arena in 2027.

"Coach Stephens has elevated our men's basketball program in many ways during his tenure as our Head Coach," said Dan Bartholomae, university vice president and director of athletics. "He has represented our Broncos with integrity and class, and we are grateful for his contributions.

"As the world of intercollegiate athletics continues to evolve, and as we anticipate the opening of the finest basketball training and competition venue in the country, we believe it is in our best interests to seek new leadership and direction for our program. These decisions are challenging, and we will move forward with a focus on championship level success in an exciting new home environment."

--Field Level Media

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