Rocky Lamar enters his second season as the head coach of the Bethel College women's basketball program, bringing a wealth of experience and a legacy of success to the Threshers. A member of the NAIA Hall of Fame, Coach Lamar has amassed an impressive career record of 824 wins and 440 losses, making him one of the most accomplished coaches in NAIA history.
Before arriving at Bethel, Coach Lamar spent 36 seasons as the head coach at MidAmerica Nazarene University (MNU), where he built a nationally respected program. A 1976 graduate of MNU, he took over as head coach in 1986 and went on to collect 788 wins, leading the Pioneers to 13 conference championships and 19 NAIA national tournament appearances. Under his leadership, MNU reached the NAIA Final Four seven times, finishing as national runner-up in 2001 and winning the 2007 NAIA National Championship. He was named NAIA and KBCA Coach of the Year for the 2006-07 season and was a seven-time Heart of America Athletic Conference (HAAC) Coach of the Year.
Lamar’s coaching journey began in Iowa, where he led programs at Central City and Blakesburg before returning to his alma mater in 1986. Known for his up-tempo, disciplined style of play, he credits much of his coaching philosophy to Hall of Fame mentor Bill Fleming, who coached him in high school at Maquoketa, Iowa. As a player, Lamar still holds MNU career records for free throw percentage and assists per game.
Beyond his on-court success, Coach Lamar has built a reputation for his ability to positively impact student-athletes, fostering a culture of character, accountability, and faith. His influence extends far beyond the court, with a coaching tree that includes dozens of former players and assistants who have gone on to successful coaching careers at various levels. His commitment to developing young athletes is also evident through his long-standing summer basketball camps, which continue to shape the next generation of players and leaders.
A native of Indiana who grew up in Iowa, Coach Lamar has called Kansas home since 1986. He earned a Master's in Educational Administration from the University of Kansas. He and his wife, Dr. Jo Lamar, have been married for over 40 years and have two children, Chaz and Sarah, both graduates of MNU. They are also proud grandparents to Jared, Jayna, and Jonas.
As he continues to lead the Bethel women's basketball program, Coach Lamar remains committed to excellence on and off the court, instilling in his players the same passion, discipline, and love for the game that has defined his legendary career.
