Head Men’s Basketball Coach

A.J. Wynder (16th season)

Coach Wynder serving as the Nassau Community College head coach for the past fifteen years prides himself in building a very competitive and respectable basketball program. Coach Wynder's philosophy on discipline, hard work and team unity have paid dividends as the men's basketball program has enjoyed a very productive winning percentage (.668) under his leadership. Heading into the 2012-13 campaign Coach Wynder is two victories shy of reaching the 300 wins milestone. Although, Coach Wynder has yet to capture a Region XV (Div. III) championship he has led the Lions to four title games ('12, '07, '06, '02). Coach Wynder believes the greatest accomplishments of his coaching tenure has been his ability to assist his player's in transferring to the four-year college level (NCAA, NAIA) to further their education and to continue their basketball careers. 

Coach Wynder became the 4th coach in the history of Nassau Community College men’s basketball program in April 1997 after a very distinguished career as a player in various professional leagues. His most notable achievements were playing in the National Basketball Association with the Boston Celtics during the ('90-91) season and winning a Silver medal competing in the (1995) Pan American Games for USA Basketball. During his tenure in the Continental Basketball Association, while playing for the Tri City Chinooks (WA), is where Wynder began developing his coaching skills as he was promoted to player/ assistant coach for two seasons (’93-95). Wynder ended his playing career in the CBA after the ('95-96) season.

Wynder who is a native of Long Island, grew up in Freeport, graduated from St. Agnes Cathedral High School in Rockville Centre (‘82) where he was selected All-Long Island in both basketball and track. Wynder then took his talents to Fairfield University (CT) where he helped lead his team to two MAAC championships and NCAA appearances ('86, '87). Wynder graduated in 1987 with a B.S., Marketing degree as well as induction into Fairfield’s Athletic Hall of Fame (’95).

Wynder also serves as Administrative Assistant to the Athletic Director. Wynder and his wife, Tina, have three children, Christine, Artiana, and Jairus, reside in Uniondale, NY.

Career Coaching Record: 298-148 (15 seasons)