Bimbo Coles, American basketball player and coach

Vernell Eufaye "Bimbo" Coles, born on April 22, 1968, carved out a remarkable career as an American professional basketball player, leaving an indelible mark from his high school days through the collegiate ranks and into the NBA. Known universally by his distinctive nickname, "Bimbo," which was affectionately bestowed upon him by a cousin in a lighthearted nod to a country music song of the same name, Coles quickly became synonymous with athletic excellence and versatility.

Early Life and Multi-Sport Excellence

Coles’ athletic journey began in Lewisburg, West Virginia, where he was a true standout at Greenbrier East High School. His talent wasn't confined to a single sport; he excelled across the board, showcasing impressive skills in basketball, baseball, and football. In fact, his prowess on the football field was so significant that he garnered more attention from college recruiters for football than for basketball. His gridiron accomplishments were notable, earning him all-state honors twice and even an All-America selection once, cementing his status as a premier high school athlete. On the baseball diamond, where he patrolled shortstop and the outfield, Coles famously claimed to have been selected by the Philadelphia Phillies in the 1986 Major League Baseball draft, a testament to his rare multi-sport aptitude. Despite the strong pull from football, Coles ultimately declared his intention to pursue college basketball, choosing to focus his remarkable talents on the hardwood. His collegiate recruitment saw interest from prominent programs like Virginia Tech, Maryland, and West Virginia, setting the stage for his next chapter.

Collegiate Stardom at Virginia Tech

It was with the Virginia Tech Hokies that Coles truly blossomed into a collegiate basketball star. Over four seasons, from 1986 to 1990, he orchestrated a legendary career, etching his name into the school's record books and the broader Metro Conference history. Coles concluded his time at Virginia Tech as the all-time leading scorer for both the school and the Metro Conference, a testament to his consistent offensive output. Furthermore, he set the school record for career assists, showcasing his ability to both score and facilitate. His exceptional contributions to Virginia Tech basketball were rightfully recognized with his induction into the Virginia Tech Sports Hall of Fame, a fitting tribute to his enduring legacy. Beyond his alma mater, his achievements were also celebrated in his home state, earning him a place in the West Virginia Sports Hall of Fame.

An Olympic Bronze Medalist

During his collegiate tenure, Coles also achieved a significant international honor, proudly representing his country on the global stage. He was a vital member of the United States national basketball team that competed in the 1988 Summer Olympics. In Seoul, South Korea, the team battled fiercely, ultimately securing a bronze medal, a prestigious accomplishment that added an Olympic medal to Coles' growing list of accolades and solidified his status as an elite player.

A Unique Professional Path: From MLB Draft to NBA Debut

The year 1990 proved to be a pivotal one for Bimbo Coles, marked by a unique intersection of professional sports drafts. Remarkably, despite not having played organized baseball since his high school days, his raw athletic talent was still recognized, leading to his selection by the California Angels in the final round of the Major League Baseball draft. However, Coles' ultimate professional destiny lay in basketball. He entered the 1990 NBA Draft where he was chosen by the Sacramento Kings. His stay with the Kings was brief, as he was immediately traded to the Miami Heat in exchange for veteran guard Rory Sparrow, signaling the start of his NBA career in South Beach.

NBA Career: A Dependable Point Guard

Bimbo Coles embarked on a professional basketball career that spanned several seasons, primarily establishing himself as a reliable backup point guard in the demanding NBA landscape. His journey included two distinct stints with the Miami Heat, where he became a familiar face to the franchise's early fanbase. Beyond Miami, Coles also lent his talents to a variety of other respected NBA teams, contributing his consistent playmaking and defensive effort to the Golden State Warriors, Atlanta Hawks, Cleveland Cavaliers, and Boston Celtics. Throughout his career, he was valued for his court vision, steady hand, and ability to manage the game, a vital role for any team's second unit.

Beyond Playing: Coaching and Family Legacy

After his NBA playing days, Bimbo Coles continued to stay connected to the game that defined much of his life. He returned to his roots, taking on a coaching role at his alma mater, Greenbrier East High School in Lewisburg, West Virginia, where he mentored young athletes until 2021. The Coles family's connection to basketball extends further, as his brother, Sidney Coles, also pursued a collegiate basketball career, playing for two years at Memphis and then for two years at Marshall, notably spending one of those seasons under the tutelage of then-head coach Billy Donovan. Sidney later transitioned into coaching himself, accepting a position as an assistant coach at Wyoming in 2000, serving under head coach Steve McClain. This continued involvement underscores the deep-seated passion for basketball within the Coles family.

Frequently Asked Questions About Bimbo Coles

What is Vernell "Bimbo" Coles' full name and birth date?
Vernell "Bimbo" Coles' full name is Vernell Eufaye Coles, and he was born on April 22, 1968.
How did Bimbo Coles get his nickname?
His nickname "Bimbo" was given to him by a cousin, referencing a country music song of the same name.
Where did Bimbo Coles play college basketball, and what were his key achievements there?
Bimbo Coles played college basketball for the Virginia Tech Hokies for four seasons (1986-1990). He set school and Metro Conference records for career points, as well as the school record for career assists. He was inducted into both the Virginia Tech Sports Hall of Fame and the West Virginia Sports Hall of Fame.
Did Bimbo Coles represent the United States in the Olympics?
Yes, he was a member of the United States national basketball team that won a bronze medal at the 1988 Summer Olympics in Seoul.
Which NBA teams did Bimbo Coles play for during his career?
Bimbo Coles played for the Miami Heat (in two separate stints), Golden State Warriors, Atlanta Hawks, Cleveland Cavaliers, and Boston Celtics.
Was Bimbo Coles ever drafted by a Major League Baseball team?
Yes, despite not having played baseball since high school, he was drafted by the California Angels in the final round of the 1990 Major League Baseball draft.
What was Bimbo Coles' primary role in the NBA?
He was primarily utilized as a backup point guard throughout his NBA career.
What did Bimbo Coles do after his NBA playing career?
After his playing career, Bimbo Coles coached basketball at his alma mater, Greenbrier East High School in Lewisburg, West Virginia, until 2021.
Does Bimbo Coles have family members involved in basketball?
Yes, his brother, Sidney Coles, played college basketball at Memphis and Marshall, and later became an assistant coach at Wyoming.