Our Story

About the Wizards

Supporting the whole basketball community since 1988

Our Mission

The Monterey Bay Wizards Basketball Academy is dedicated to developing young athletes into skilled basketball players and responsible citizens. We believe in supporting the whole basketball community - from players and coaches to referees and volunteers.

For over 38 years, we've been building champions on and off the court, teaching not just basketball skills but life lessons that will serve our players well beyond the game.

Endorsed by the Santa Cruz Warriors Basketball Team

Wizards Team
Wizards Team practice
Wizards Team game

Our Values

These core values guide everything we do at the Monterey Bay Wizards.

Community

Supporting the whole basketball community - players, coaches, referees, and volunteers.

Excellence

Striving for excellence in basketball skills and personal character development.

Teamwork

Building strong team bonds and lifelong friendships through the game we love.

Achievement

Celebrating individual and team accomplishments on and off the court.

Our Community

The Wizards are more than a team - we're a family that supports each other on and off the court.

Coach Jim Rimando mentoring young basketball players

Coach Jim Rimando mentoring future stars

Wizards players and families building community

Building a strong basketball community

Wizards players proudly wearing team gear

Pride in the Wizards tradition

Our Coaching Staff

Experienced coaches dedicated to developing the next generation of basketball players and citizens.

Jim Rimando

Jim Rimando

Head Coach & Founder

With over 38 years of coaching experience at North Salinas High School, Seaside High School, and Hartnell College, Coach Jim has led teams to 21 CCS playoffs and earned 4x Coach of the Year honors. A Vietnam veteran and dedicated community leader.

  • 38+ Years Coaching
  • 21 CCS Playoffs
  • 4x Coach of the Year
  • Vietnam Veteran
Jeremy Salvejo

Jeremy Salvejo

Assistant Coach

A dedicated coach committed to developing young athletes and helping them reach their full potential both on the court and in life.

  • Youth Development Specialist
  • Skills Training Expert
Mike "Tike" Turnan

Mike "Tike" Turnan

Assistant Coach

Brings years of basketball experience and a passion for teaching the fundamentals of the game to the next generation of players.

  • Fundamentals Expert
  • Team Building Specialist

Our Approach

At the Monterey Bay Wizards, we don't just teach basketball - we develop the whole athlete. Our program emphasizes fundamentals, teamwork, sportsmanship, and academic excellence.

We create opportunities for everyone in our community to participate and grow, whether as a player, coach, referee, or volunteer. That's what makes us more than just a basketball program - we're a family.

Join Our Family

Become part of a community that has been building champions for over 38 years.