Kelly Sopak, a University of Nevada alumnus and founder of the Cal Stars Basketball Club, has been named head coach of the Nevada Women’s Basketball program, Director of Athletics Stephanie Rempe announced on Mar. 24.
The appointment is significant for the university’s women’s basketball team as it brings in a coach with extensive experience in developing talent at both the amateur and high school levels. Sopak has coached players who have gone on to compete at collegiate and professional levels, including nine former players drafted into the WNBA.
Rempe said, “Today’s announcement marks a defining moment for Nevada Women’s Basketball and for the University of Nevada. Kelly’s return to his alma mater brings not only expertise, but an energy and vision that matches the ambition of this program.” She added that Sopak’s history of mentoring top athletes aligns with the direction planned for Wolf Pack basketball.
Sopak previously served as head coach at Carondelet High School in Concord, California, leading them to a CIF Division I state title in 2025 and earning recognition as Cal-Hi Sports State Coach of the Year for girls’ basketball. His coaching career includes over 500 wins across multiple schools. Notably, he guided Miramonte High School to several league titles and championship game appearances during his tenure from 2008 to 2020.
Reflecting on his new role, Sopak said, “I am truly honored and grateful to be selected as the next head coach of Nevada Women’s Basketball. As an alum, this place has shaped me in so many ways… We are going to build a program that reflects the toughness, the work ethic, and the spirit of Nevada.” He also highlighted his excitement about working with student athletes at his alma mater.
University President Brian Sandoval said that Sopak “has established himself as one of the winningest women’s basketball coaches and developers of basketball talent on the West Coast,” adding that he is well-suited to lead Wolf Pack women’s basketball into its next era.
