Cal State Fullerton Director of Athletics, Jim Donovan, announced on Tuesday the hiring of John Bonner as the new head coach of the Titans women’s basketball team.
“It was a very competitive search, with numerous qualified candidates,” Donovan said. “President Rochon, the committee, and I were all very impressed with John’s success at CSU Dominguez Hills. His commitment to team culture and developing women leaders through basketball aligns with our belief that Titan Athletics is a leadership laboratory, shaping future leaders for our community, state, and country.”
Bonner, the 12th head coach in the program’s history, comes to Fullerton after a highly successful nine-year tenure at Cal State Dominguez Hills. In the 2024-25 season, he guided the Toros to a 36-2 record and their first-ever NCAA Division II Championship game, where they finished as national runners-up.
“I want to thank President Rochan, Athletic Director Jim Donovan, and the committee for entrusting me with this incredible opportunity,” Bonner said. “Being named the head coach at Cal State Fullerton is a dream come true. I’m excited to lead a talented group of young athletes and be part of a university that values both academic and athletic success.”
During his time at CSU Dominguez Hills, Bonner compiled a 127-82 record and earned CCAA Coach of the Year honors twice. Under his leadership, the Toros made five postseason appearances and won four conference championships. He also led the team to two NCAA Division II Elite Eight appearances and their first-ever NCAA West Regional Championship titles in 2023 and 2025.
Bonner’s players have earned numerous accolades, including All-Conference Team honors, CCAA Player of the Year awards, and national recognition. This past season, Nala Williams was named the 2025 WBCA NCAA Division II National Player of the Year, the first in program history.
“I am very excited to welcome John to the Titans family,” said Associate Athletics Director Sara Perry. “He is a proven leader with a clear vision for Titan Women’s Basketball. I believe his leadership will set us apart in the Big West Conference.”
Before his time at CSU Dominguez Hills, Bonner was an assistant coach at Fresno Pacific for six seasons, where he helped the Sunbirds achieve their first winning record since 2002. He also served as an interim head coach for Fresno Pacific in 2016.
Bonner, a native of Bakersfield, Calif., holds a bachelor’s degree in psychology and a master’s degree in counseling from Fresno State.
“We are excited to welcome John to Fullerton and look forward to the future success of Titan Women’s Basketball,” Donovan concluded.
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