A compact water pump assembly has a shaft extending from a first end to a second end. An annular groove is located on the shaft. A housing member is located about the shaft and intermediate the first and second ends. An impeller is coupled to the second end of the shaft. A plurality of bearing members are arranged in a single-row within the groove. The bearing members rotatably support the shaft in the housing. In addition, each bearing member includes a radial centerline. A pulley is coupled to the first end of the shaft. The pulley is capable of engaging a drive belt such that the centerline of the belt driving surface is in substantial alignment with the bearing centerlines.