MOUNT VERNON, Wash. — Skagit Valley College men’s basketball head coach Carl Howell has reached a historic milestone, earning his 500th career victory with the Cardinals’ win over Centralia College on Dec. 12, 2025.
With the achievement, Howell becomes the fastest coach in Northwest Athletic
Conference (NWAC) history to reach 500 career wins — surpassing former Lower Columbia coach Jim Roffler, who previously held the record by reaching the milestone in 711 games. Howell secured win No. 500 in 711 games, cementing his place among the conference’s most accomplished coaches.
“Reaching 500 wins — and doing it while coaching at my alma mater — is definitely special,” said Howell. “But individual milestones in team sports really reflect the success of the team and the program. I’ve been extremely fortunate to work with so many talented players, loyal assistant coaches and strong support from our administrations.
Howell said that the success of his teams is a direct reflection of his Hall of Fame coaching mentors: Dave Quall at SVC; the late Ron Billings at Tacoma Community College; Dean Nicholson at Central Washington University; and the late Gil Coleman at Central Washington.
A Career Defined by Excellence
Across 22 seasons, Howell has built one of the most successful careers in NWAC basketball, consistently leading programs marked by discipline, player development and academic accountability. His teams have made regular appearances in postseason play, and his influence extends far beyond wins and championships, shaping the student-athlete experience at every program he has guided.
Career Highlights
- 2 NWAC championships (2002, 2012)
- 8 Final Four appearances
- 8 region championships
- 9 NWAC Coach of the Year awards
- Career record: 500–147 (.770)
- Fastest coach in NWAC history to reach 500 wins
Beyond the accolades, Howell’s influence extends deeply into the student-athlete experience. His programs are built on discipline, player development, academic accountability and a commitment to helping young men grow as athletes and as people. His leadership has shaped the culture of every program he has guided, leaving a lasting legacy within the NWAC and elevating SVC men’s basketball.
“Five hundred wins is a huge accomplishment for any coach,” said Mitch Freeman, SVC athletic director. “It’s a testament to Carl’s ability to build a successful, winning culture with talented players — whom he invests in through strong relationships — and dedicated coaches for more than 20 years at the collegiate level. Congratulations, Coach Howell.”
NWAC Men’s Basketball All-Time Career Wins (As of August 2025)
- Mark Poth – Big Bend
617–296 (.670) • 31 seasons • Retired 2017
- Keith Kingsbury – Edmonds
570–411 (.581) • 36 seasons • Retired 2005
- Clif Wegner – Mt. Hood / Clackamas
556–273 (.671) • 28 seasons (COVID-adjusted) • Died 2025
- Jim Roffler – Lower Columbia
546–241 (.693) • 26 seasons • Retired 2017
- Ernie Woods – Bellevue
541–305 (.634) • 30 seasons • Retired 1997
- Jeff Reinland – Walla Walla
523–376 (.582) • 32 seasons (COVID-adjusted)
- Carl Howell – Tacoma / Skagit Valley
500–147 (.770) • 22 seasons (COVID-adjusted)
Media Contact Info
Marisa Pierce, Executive Director of Strategic Marketing and Communications
360.416.7957
marisa.pierce@skagit.edu