(SAN DIEGO) Tobin Karlberg is returning to The Point.
 
Former PLNU Men's Basketball standout Karlberg has been hired as an assistant coach for the Sea Lions ahead of the 2026-27 season.
 
"It's hard to express the gratitude I have to be able to bring Tobin and Tessa back to Point Loma," Head Coach Justin Downer said. "They made a huge impact on our program and community on a record setting 2022-23 team that really set the standard for Point Loma Men's Basketball.
 
"Tobin leads with his faith fearlessly and understands what it takes to be the best at our level. I couldn't be more excited about what he brings to the table, and the good fortune our players have to call him, 'Coach.'"
 

Welcome back Tobin!

We are proud to announce the return of alum Tobin Karlberg as an Assistant Coach.

A former Sea Lion standout, 1,200+ point scorer, & 3x All-Conference selection, Tobin brings proven experience and a deep connection to The Point.#GoSeaLions x #ThePoint🟢🟡 pic.twitter.com/JNg555yMx7

— Point Loma Basketball (@plnubasketball) June 8, 2026

 
Karlberg played one season for the Sea Lions in 2022-23, averaging 11.0 points per game and earning All-PacWest honors. He helped Point Loma go a perfect 20-0 in the PacWest regular season before also winning the conference tournament.
 
The All-West Regional Tournament selection was instrumental in leading the Sea Lions to the West Regional championship game, its first of three appearances in the last four years.
 
Prior to PLNU, Karlberg starred for Alaska Anchorage, where he was a two-time All-GNAC performer. He scored over 1,200 points in his collegiate career.
 
"I couldn't be more excited to be returning to Point Loma," Karlberg said. "My wife Tessa and I are honored to have the opportunity to come back to The Point and pour into the rich basketball tradition that's continued since we left here three years ago."
 
After his playing career, Karlberg stepped immediately into coaching with stops at Lewis-Clark State (2023-24) and Alaska Fairbanks (2024-25, 2025-26).
 
He helped LC State reach the NAIA Sweet 16 before coaching UAF to back-to-back GNAC Tournament berths. This past season, he led UAF to its first winning season in 10 years.

The former Sea Lions shooting guard has helped recruit and develop nine All-Conference players over the past three seasons.

"Coach Downer has been immensely impactful in my life, and I can't wait to work with him and his staff here at PLNU," Karlberg said.
 
Point Loma has won five straight PacWest regular season titles and two consecutive conference tournament crowns, including three in the last four.