Bimbo Coles

Bimbo Coles, born on April 22, 1968, is a distinguished American former professional basketball player and coach, renowned for his impressive fourteen-season tenure in the National Basketball Association (NBA). A standout athlete from Greenbrier East High School in Lewisburg, West Virginia, Coles excelled in basketball, baseball, and football, earning all-state honors in football and claiming to have been drafted by the Philadelphia Phillies in 1986.

Coles chose to pursue basketball at the collegiate level, playing for the Virginia Tech Hokies from 1986 to 1990. During his time at Virginia Tech, he set remarkable records for career points and assists, which remain unmatched in the Metro Conference. His exceptional performance earned him induction into both the Virginia Tech Sports Hall of Fame and the West Virginia Sports Hall of Fame.

In addition to his collegiate success, Coles represented the United States national basketball team, contributing to their bronze medal victory at the 1988 Summer Olympics. His professional career began when he was selected by the Sacramento Kings in the 1990 NBA draft, only to be traded to the Miami Heat. Throughout his career, he played for several teams, including the Golden State Warriors, Atlanta Hawks, Cleveland Cavaliers, and Boston Celtics, primarily serving as a backup point guard.

Coles' legacy extends beyond his playing days; he has also made significant contributions as a coach. Until 2021, he dedicated his time to coaching at his alma mater, Greenbrier East High School. His brother, Sidney, also made his mark in basketball, playing at Memphis and Marshall, and later transitioning into coaching.