Point Loma Nazarene University announced this week that Tobin Karlberg will join the Sea Lions' coaching staff as an assistant ahead of the 2026-27 campaign. The move brings back a player who was instrumental in the program's recent run of dominance in the Pacific West Conference.
A championship pedigree
During the 2022-23 season Karlberg helped the Sea Lions to a perfect 20-0 regular‑season record and secured the conference tournament title. His contributions earned him All‑PacWest honors and a key role in guiding the team to the West Regional championship game.
Karlberg's collegiate career began at Alaska Anchorage, where he amassed more than 1,200 points and earned two All‑GNAC selections. He later transferred to Point Loma, where he played one season before launching a coaching journey that included stints at Lewis‑Clark State College and the University of Alaska Fairbanks.
From player to mentor
After hanging up his jersey, Karlberg led Lewis‑Clark State to a NAIA Sweet 16 appearance and guided Alaska Fairbanks to back‑to‑back GNAC Tournament berths. In the most recent season he orchestrated the program's first winning record in a decade, while also mentoring nine All‑Conference players over the past three years.
Head Coach Justin Downer expressed enthusiasm about the hire, noting Karlberg's deep understanding of the program's culture and his proven ability to develop talent. "Tobin knows what it takes to win at this level, and his experience will be a huge asset as we continue to build on our recent successes," Downer said in a statement.
Looking ahead
The Sea Lions enter the upcoming season riding a streak of five consecutive PacWest regular‑season titles and two straight conference tournament crowns. With Karlberg's return, the coaching staff hopes to maintain that momentum and pursue another deep run in the NCAA Division II tournament.