Beeman's Coaching Career: A Legacy of Success in Women's Basketball
The trajectory of a successful coaching career is often built on a foundation of continuous learning and a steady climb through the ranks of competitive athletics. For Beeman, this journey spanned several decades, moving from collegiate assistant roles to head coaching positions at the junior college and NCAA Division I levels, with a notable stint in professional basketball.
Early Career and Academic Foundation
Beeman began her coaching journey in 1992 as a women's basketball assistant coach at the University of Redlands. During this period, she prioritized her professional development, earning a Master of Education (M.Ed.) in counseling in 1994.
In 1994, Beeman transitioned to the junior college level, joining Mt. San Antonio College as an assistant coach. Her commitment to education continued as she enrolled at Azusa Pacific University, where she obtained a master's degree in physical education in 1996.
Dominance at Mt. San Antonio College
Beeman's rise to leadership happened quickly; she was promoted to head coach at Mt. San Antonio in 1995. Over the next 15 seasons, ending in 2010, she established a powerhouse program. Her tenure was marked by a remarkable 390–110 record.
Under her guidance, the program secured ten South Coast Conference titles and four CCCAA (California Community College Athletic Association) titles in 2004, 2006, 2007, and 2008.
Professional and Collegiate Assistant Roles
Beeman expanded her expertise into the professional arena by joining the Los Angeles Sparks of the WNBA. Serving under Michael Cooper during the 2008 and 2009 seasons, she gained invaluable experience at the highest level of women's professional basketball.
Following her time in the WNBA, Beeman returned to the collegiate ranks from 2010 to 2012, serving as an assistant coach at the University of Southern California (USC), again working under Michael Cooper.
Leading the Hawaii Rainbow Wahine
In 2012, Beeman was appointed head coach for the Hawaii Rainbow Wahine basketball team at the University of Hawaii at Manoa. Over eleven seasons, she led the team to significant milestones in both the WNIT (Women's National Invitation Tournament) and the NCAA tournament.
Her leadership resulted in four WNIT appearances (2013, 2014, 2015, 2019) and three NCAA tournament appearances (2016, 2022, 2023). Furthermore, Hawaii captured the Big West Conference regular season title in 2015, 2022, and 2024, and won the Big West tournament in 2016, 2022, and 2023.
After a distinguished career of building winning programs, Beeman announced her retirement from coaching following the 2025–26 season.
Key Facts
- Career Record at Mt. San Antonio: 390–110 over 15 seasons.
- Major Titles: 4 CCCAA titles and 10 South Coast Conference titles.
- Professional Experience: Assistant coach for the WNBA's Los Angeles Sparks (2008–2009).
- NCAA Success: 3 NCAA tournament appearances and 3 Big West tournament championships with Hawaii.
- Academic Credentials: M.Ed. in counseling and a master's degree in physical education.
Career Summary Table
| Period/Year | Organization/Institution | Role/Achievement |
|---|---|---|
| 1992–1994 | University of Redlands | Assistant Coach |
| 1994–1995 | Mt. San Antonio College | Assistant Coach |
| 1995–2010 | Mt. San Antonio College | Head Coach (390–110 record) |
| 2008–2009 | Los Angeles Sparks (WNBA) | Assistant Coach |
| 2010–2012 | USC | Assistant Coach |
| 2012–2023+ | University of Hawaii at Manoa | Head Coach |
Frequently Asked Questions
When did Beeman start coaching?
Beeman began her coaching career in 1992 as an assistant coach for the women's basketball team at the University of Redlands.
How successful was Beeman at Mt. San Antonio College?
Beeman was highly successful, achieving a 390–110 record over 15 seasons, winning ten South Coast Conference titles and four CCCAA titles.
Did Beeman coach in the professional leagues?
Yes, Beeman served as an assistant coach for the Los Angeles Sparks of the WNBA during the 2008 and 2009 seasons.
What were the major achievements at the University of Hawaii?
At Hawaii, Beeman led the team to three NCAA tournament appearances, four WNIT appearances, three Big West regular season titles, and three Big West tournament championships.
When is Beeman retiring?
Beeman has announced her retirement from coaching after the conclusion of the 2025–26 season.