│ MEN'S BASKETBALL COACHING STAFF

│ BIO

Les Bean enters his first year at Grace University Athletics as a proven builder, culture-setter, and championship-level leader, bringing with him 26 years of coaching experience across the high school, prep/postgrad, junior college, and university ranks. Recognized for his ability to elevate programs from the ground up, Bean arrives at Grace ready to establish a new era defined by competitive excellence, academic integrity, and spiritual impact.

​

In his previous role, Bean served as Director of Athletics and Head Men’s Basketball Coach at Nobel University, where he built and led one of the most rapidly growing athletic departments in the nation. Over the course of two years, he built the foundation, established the blueprint for success, and elevated the program to a level positioned for national prominence. His leadership helped launch multiple athletic programs while laying the groundwork for sustained growth and long-term success.

​​

On the hardwood, Bean’s teams have consistently competed at a high level, facing some of the most challenging non-conference schedules in the country and earning national exposure along the way. His teams are defined by toughness, discipline, and an unwavering competitive edge—traits that reflect his coaching philosophy and playing background.

​​

Midway through his tenure, Bean also stepped in to guide the women’s basketball program, helping stabilize and elevate the team through a strong finish and a top-tier tournament seeding. His ability to lead multiple programs simultaneously speaks to his versatility, leadership, and deep understanding of team culture and program development.

​​

A former collegiate and professional athlete, Bean’s playing career began at Fremont High School in Los Angeles, where he helped lead his team to multiple city championships and a state final appearance. He continued his career at Los Angeles City College, earning two-time All-Conference honors before advancing to UC Santa Barbara, where he competed at the Division I level. Following college, Bean played professionally overseas in Italy, Mexico, and Peru—an experience that broadened his perspective and strengthened his global understanding of the game.

​

Throughout his career, Bean has built a reputation as a program architect—someone who not only coaches but constructs winning environments from the ground up. His approach blends accountability, player development, and a culture rooted in excellence, preparation, and purpose.

​

At Grace University, Bean will play a key leadership role in shaping the future of the athletic department—driving competitive growth, expanding programs, and enhancing the overall student-athlete experience.

​

Grace University Athletics welcomes a leader who brings vision, discipline, and a championship mindset to everything he does. Under Les Bean’s leadership, the future is not only promising—it’s being built with intention, precision, and purpose.

​​

Les Bean is married, a proud father of two, and resides in Tustin, California. His commitment to family, faith, and leadership extends beyond the court and into every aspect of his life.

​

Coaching Career Timeline

​

Present (2026)

• Grace University​

• Director of Athletics / Head Men’s Basketball Coach

​

2024–2026​

• Nobel University

• Director of Athletics / Head Men’s Basketball Coach

​​

2023–2024

• Stanton University

• Director of Basketball Operations / Head Men’s Basketball Coach

​​

2012–2023

• Future College Prep

• Director / Head Boys Basketball Coach

​​

2011–2012

• Stoneridge Prep

• Program Director / Head Men’s Basketball Coach

​​

2006–2011

• Community Charter High School

• Athletic Director / Head Boys Basketball Coach

​​

2005–2006

• Pasadena City College

• Assistant Men’s Basketball Coach / Director of Basketball Operations

​​

2001–2005

• Pasadena Polytechnic High School

• Head Boys Basketball Coach

​​

2000–2001

• Los Angeles City College

• Assistant Men’s Basketball Coach