Stephen Winters
Owner/Founder San Diego Sharks Basketball Club
Stephen Winters, originally from Wichita, Kansas, was a standout in both varsity and elite AAU basketball. His deep love for the game naturally led him into coaching. He attended the University of Kansas, where he got his start under legendary coach Roy Williams as a first-year intern. He went on to earn a Bachelor’s degree in Communication with a minor in Coaching, and later completed his MBA at Ashford University in 2010.
In 2011, Coach Winters launched the San Diego Sharks, which has grown into one of the largest and most competitive club basketball programs in Southern California. Around the same time, he spent two years as the head varsity coach at NUA, helping build the program from the ground up. He then joined the staff at Mater Dei Catholic under Coach Kenny Cesar, where he spent three years and helped lead the team to an Open Division semi-final appearance.
In 2018, Winters took over a struggling O’Farrell Charter program and turned it around in a big way. Over three seasons, he led the team to a 60-19 record, a league championship, and a CIF semi-final run. His efforts were recognized in 2019 when he was named Summit League Coach of the Year.
By 2021, his impact on the San Diego basketball scene earned him recognition from the Times of San Diego Top Ten Most Underrated Local Coaches. Then, in 2022, San Diego Basketball Reviews also honored him as a leading figure in college recruiting.
Stephen Winters brings years of hands-on experience and a deep understanding of the game to the San Diego basketball community. His passion for coaching is evident not just in his track record, but in the energy and leadership he brings to every program he’s part of. Known for his ability to build strong relationships and elevate those around him, Stephen has a proven ability to lead, develop talent, and create a winning culture.
