James Kunkle
A dedicated and experienced basketball coach with a proven track record of success at the collegiate, high school, and AAU levels, James Kunkle brings over two decades of coaching and player development experience. Known for building competitive programs, developing athletes, and leading successful recruitment efforts, he has consistently elevated teams to championship-level performances.
Currently serving as Women’s Assistant Basketball Coach at York College of Pennsylvania since 2022, Kunkle has been instrumental in recruiting, preparing detailed scout reports, and developing game strategies focused on defense, guard play, strength & conditioning, and player development. Under their leadership, the team has achieved notable success, including a MAC Semifinals appearance and a 15-11 overall record in the 2023-24 season.
Previously, James Kunkle held multiple head coaching roles in Girl's Basketball at West York High School (2017-2022) and New Oxford High School (2015-2017), compiling an impressive overall record and guiding teams to multiple district and state playoff appearances. Notable achievements include leading West York to the PIAA State Tournament Elite Eight (2022), YAIAA Division II Champions (2020), YAIAA Division II Coach of the Year (2020), and guiding New Oxford to first ever PIAA State Tournament win (2017), YAIAA Championship Runner-up (2017).
In addition to high school coaching, Kunkle has extensive experience in AAU and youth basketball development, serving as Youth Basketball Director and Head Coach for Ballyhoo Sports Academy (2014-16), Head Coach for Central PA Elite (2017-2022), Lady Raiders Basketball Academy (2024-Present), and West York Boys Club Girls Basketball (2012-2017; 2019-Present). He has mentored young athletes in foundational skills, strength training, and high-level competition on the national stage.
A passionate advocate for youth development and grassroots basketball, he has also played a key role in growing programs like the West York Boys Club, where they expanded participation, initiated summer leagues, and introduced free youth training programs.
With a strong commitment to player growth, team success, and program development, James Kunkle continues to shape the next generation of basketball talent both on and off the court.
Outside of basketball James Kunkle has a diverse coaching background spanning lacrosse, soccer, and softball. Kunkle has dedicated years to developing athletes and fostering competitive teams across multiple sports.
In lacrosse James Kunkle has served as a Girl's Assistant Coach of West York High School (2019-2022) and York Invaders (2017-19), and a Head Coach for Nemesis (2015-16) and K9 (2014-18). Kunkle is also an Assistant Coach for WMT Softball (2023-Present) and a former Assistant Coach for West York Soccer Club (2009-2014).
James Kunkle has been happily married to his wife, Mindy, for 24 years. Together, they have two daughters who share a passion for athletics and music. Their eldest, Reagan (19), is a sophomore at Ball State University, where she plays field hockey. A graduate of West York High School, Reagan was a multi-sport athlete, competing in field hockey, basketball, swimming, and lacrosse, while also serving as drum major and playing the trumpet in the marching band. Their youngest, Courtlyn (11), attends West York School District and is actively involved in field hockey, basketball, and softball, while also following in her sister’s footsteps by playing the trumpet.