Year 2  //  - Entering his second season as Director of Athletics and Head Men's Basketball Coach at Nobel University, Les Bean stands at the forefront of a rapidly rising athletic empire. In just one year, Bean successfully built the department from the ground up - launching four competitive sports teams and laying a championship-driven foundation. Now, as the university expands to seven sports programs in year two, the momentum is undeniable.

 

On the hardwood, Coach Bean led the 2024-25 Men's Basketball team through the most competitive small-school non-conference schedules in the country - including two televised appearances on ESPN - before guiding the Knights to a thrilling first-round upset over #3 seed Lincoln University in the SWS Conference Tournament, advancing to the semi-finals. Midway through the year, Bean also stepped in as interim Head Coach for the Women's Basketball team, leading them to a strong finish and securing the #3 seed in their tournament bracket.

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With over 25 years of coaching experience spanning high school, prep/postgrad, junior college, and university levels, Bean brings a rare blend of leadership, adaptability, and championship vision. The foundation is set. The climb continues. The future is now.

 

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Year 1 // - Bean's extensive coaching career is a testament to his unparalleled expertise in building and revitalizing basketball programs. Over the past two decades, he has successfully established and rehabilitated five different basketball organizations across various levels, demonstrating a unique ability to foster competitive teams and nurturing environments. His strategic vision and hands-on approach have consistently led to impressive turnarounds and sustained success.

 

Les Bean's journey in basketball began with a stellar high school career at Fremont High School in Los Angeles, CA. There, he was instrumental in securing three city championships and making a state final appearance against now Dallas Mavericks Head Coach Jason Kidd. His exceptional skills and leadership on the court earned him recognition and paved the way for his collegiate career.

 

At the powerhouse California Juco, LA City College, Bean became a standout player, earning two-time All-Conference honors. His performance attracted multiple Division I offers, culminating in his signing with UC Santa Barbara. During his tenure at UCSB, Bean led the team in three statistical categories over two seasons, showcasing his versatility and prowess on the court.

 

Following his collegiate success, Bean extended his basketball career overseas, playing five seasons in Italy, Mexico, and Peru. His international experience broadened his understanding of the game, further enriching his coaching philosophy and strategies.

 

At the helm at Nobel University, Bean brings not only a wealth of experience but also a proven track record of building winning programs from the ground up. His appointment in 2024 is hailed as an absolute home-run hire, reflecting the university's ambitious vision for its athletics department.

 

"Les Bean is a dynamic and visionary leader who embodies the qualities we seek at Nobel University," said Nobel University VP and Lead Administrator Roy Virgen. "His extensive coaching experience, combined with his remarkable playing career, makes him uniquely qualified to guide our athletics program. We are confident that under his leadership, Nobel University will achieve new heights in collegiate sports."

 

Bean's primary focus will be to establish a competitive men’s basketball team, but his role as Director of Athletics will also involve overseeing the development of other sports programs, enhancing facilities, and fostering a culture of excellence and integrity.

 

"I am honored and excited to join Nobel University at such a pivotal moment," said Les Bean. "The opportunity to build a program from its inception is a rare and thrilling challenge. I look forward to working with the administration, faculty, and students to create an athletics program that not only competes at the highest levels but also exemplifies the values and spirit of Nobel University."

 

Nobel University’s community eagerly anticipates the positive impact Bean will undoubtedly have on its athletic programs. His arrival marks the beginning of a new era, filled with promise and the potential for unprecedented success.

 

With Les Bean at the forefront, Nobel University is set to become a powerhouse in collegiate athletics, inspiring student-athletes to achieve excellence both on and off the court.

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