Des Moines Area Community College Head Men’s Basketball Coach Blake Sandquist has established the Bears as one of the premier NJCAA Division II basketball programs in the nation. With a proven track record of success at both the junior college and four-year levels, Sandquist has built his reputation on developing players, building championship cultures, and consistently competing on the national stage.

In four seasons as head coach at DMACC, Sandquist has compiled a 117-21 overall record and a 64-8 mark in ICCAC play. Under his leadership, the Bears have captured three consecutive ICCAC Regular Season Championships (2024, 2025, and 2026), won the 2026 Region XI Championship, and made three consecutive NJCAA Division II National Tournament appearances. DMACC finished 5th nationally in 2024, returned to the national tournament in 2025, and placed 6th nationally in 2026.

For his success, Sandquist has been named the ICCAC Coach of the Year three consecutive seasons (2024, 2025, and 2026). His teams have become known for their relentless defensive pressure, fast-paced style of play, and commitment to player development.

During his tenure at DMACC, four student-athletes have earned NJCAA All-American honors, while 15 players have advanced to four-year institutions, including seven NCAA Division I and eight NCAA Division II programs.

Prior to becoming the head coach at DMACC, Sandquist spent 11 seasons as the Associate Head Coach at William Penn University, helping build one of the most successful NAIA programs in the country. During his time with the Statesmen, the program posted a remarkable 295-74 overall record and qualified for the NAIA National Tournament in 10 of 11 seasons, highlighted by a National Runner-Up finish, two Fab Four appearances, and two Elite Eight appearances.

Following William Penn’s move to the Heart of America Athletic Conference in 2015, the Statesmen compiled a 127-26 conference record, winning six Heart regular season championships and five Heart Tournament championships. In recognition of his contributions, Sandquist was named the inaugural Heart of America Athletic Conference Assistant Coach of the Year in 2022.

Sandquist has built a reputation as one of the Midwest’s top recruiters and player development coaches. Across his collegiate coaching career, he has helped mentor 21 All-Americans (17 at William Penn and 4 at DMACC), while 37 players have advanced to professional basketball or NCAA Division I and II programs, including 22 professional players developed during his time at William Penn.

Sandquist believes that great programs are built on relationships, accountability, and daily excellence. His teams consistently emphasize toughness, unselfishness, discipline, and a team-first mentality while preparing student-athletes for success both on the court and in life.

A native of Iowa, Sandquist and his wife, Kayla, are the proud parents of three children: Grayson, Hudson, and Briar. Together, they enjoy supporting their children’s activities, spending time with family, and serving the DMACC community.