Jordan Delp, a 2009 Augustana College graduate, was named the 18th head coach of the men’s basketball program in February 2024. His journey to this prestigious role began as the top assistant coach for the team starting in 2021. Delp's leadership potential was evident when he stepped in as Acting Head Coach in December 2023, guiding Augustana to six wins and a spot in the CCIW Tournament before his elevation to head coach.
Delp's passion for basketball was evident from an early age, channeling his enthusiasm for the game into a work ethic that ultimately led to a successful collegiate career as a guard for the Vikings, after a small-town upbringing in Mount Carroll, Ill., where he enjoyed an outstanding athletic career. Delp helped lead his team to a second-place finish at the 2003 IHSA Class A state tournament and as a senior was a first-team all-state performer, winning area player of the year honors from the Freeport Journal-Standard and Sterling Gazette.
He was a key player on Coach Grey Giovanine’s teams from 2004 to 2009, contributing to a 103-34 overall record (51-19 CCIW record), three CCIW championships, and two conference tournament titles, while starting at point guard during the Vikings Sweet 16 run in 2005-06. Delp was a second-team All-CCIW selection in 2006-07, leading his team in scoring with 13.1 points per game, buoyed by shooting 44.9% from the three-point line. The two-time team captain suffered a torn Achilles tendon during his senior year in 2007-08, but he returned after a medical redshirt to lead in three-point field goals the following season.
As a student at Augustana, he earned a Bachelor's Degree in business administration with concentrations in finance and marketing, beginning his career as an Investment Analyst during his redshirt year with the Vikings. During his time in banking, Delp also began a player development business, dedicating the past 15 years to helping players maximize their potential on the court through a curriculum that prioritizes developing players who can make better decisions, in tighter spaces, with less time and more skill. During this time, he worked with over 100 college basketball players, over twenty who advanced to professional careers, and six who have competed at the NBA level. His extensive experience developing players at the highest levels has brought invaluable insights and knowledge to the Viking sidelines. After seven years of operating his player development business on a full-time basis, Delp transitioned back to the sidelines, rejoining Augustana as its full-time assistant before the 2021-22 campaign.
Delp’s coaching philosophy centers on holistic player development, blending discipline, teamwork, and a winning mentality. He emphasizes innovative training methods, incorporating advanced analytics with traditional practices to enhance game-day performance. Delp believes that successful basketball involves consistent, daily sacrifices from players and coaches, fostering a deep level of trust and psychological harmony within the team. His approach is rooted in the belief that the game is a reflection of teamwork and collective effort, and he is committed to instilling these values in Viking student-athletes.
Under Delp’s leadership, Augustana's basketball program is focused on a return to prominence, defined by an identity that prides itself on defending, rebounding, and running. The Vikings will play hard, play smart, play together, and with joy every time they step on the court, with the clarity, confidence, composure, and consistency required to sustain winning over the long term. Delp’s ability to recruit top talent and build cohesive teams has earned him respect within the basketball community and will continue to be the lifeblood of the program. His players know that he will lead with accountability, compassion, empathy, and selflessness, always prioritizing what they see, hear, feel, and think because he is dedicated to preparing student-athletes not only for success on the court but also for life beyond college, imparting crucial life skills and a sense of purpose.
As the head men’s basketball coach at Augustana College, Jordan Delp is focused on advancing the program’s standard of excellence. He aims to inspire and develop the next generation of athletes and leaders, building on the rich legacy of Viking basketball. Delp remains committed to pushing boundaries and achieving new milestones, ensuring that Augustana Basketball continues to excel and makes a lasting impact on our campus, our community, and everyone associated with our program.
