Derek Rongstad is in his first season as an assistant men’s basketball coach at the University of South Florida. He joined the Bulls in April 2025 after two seasons at Arkansas State.
Rongstad was originally hired at Arkansas State by head coach Bryan Hodgson in June 2023. He served as a Red Wolves assistant coach for two seasons and helped guide the program through competitive Sun Belt campaigns. His role included opponent scouting, talent evaluation, and recruiting—areas where his analytical background and defensive acumen stood out.
Before joining the Red Wolves, Rongstad spent four seasons on the staff at Alabama under head coach Nate Oats. He served as a graduate manager from 2019–21 before being promoted to coordinator of video services for the 2021–22 and 2022–23 seasons. In that role, he was responsible for game preparation, opponent scouting breakdowns, and film distribution. During his tenure, Alabama compiled a 92–42 record, captured four championships, and made three consecutive NCAA Tournament appearances, including two trips to the Sweet 16.
Rongstad began his coaching career after a successful collegiate playing career. He spent two seasons at Wisconsin-Milwaukee before transferring to Wisconsin-Whitewater, where he was voted team captain as a junior and senior.
A native of Middleton, Wisconsin, Rongstad earned a bachelor’s degree in economics from Wisconsin-Whitewater in 2018. He went on to receive his master’s in business administration in 2020. He also earned a master’s degree in sport hospitality from Alabama in 2021.
He and his wife, the former Megan Mueller, were married in May 2022. They have a son, JJ, who was born in 2024.
Derek Rongstad Coaching History
2025-Present Assistant Coach, University of South Florida
2023-2025 Assistant Coach, Arkansas State University
2021-2023 Coordinator of Video Services, University of Alabama
2019-2021 Graduate Manager, University of Alabama
