Keenan “Bean” Smith always knew he was destined for the basketball court. Growing up in Chicago, Bean’s childhood dream was to make it to the NBA. He spent countless hours playing on a small basketball rim outside his house, imagining himself as one of the greats. Despite the odds stacked against him, coming from a place where few realized their dreams, Bean’s talent and determination set him apart.
From his early days at Herzl on the west side of Chicago, where his grandmother taught third grade, to Franklin Arts School in Old Town, Bean’s passion for basketball intensified. It wasn’t until high school at Wells Community High that Bean began to seriously hone his skills. His journey was not without its struggles; he wasn’t a standout player initially. Yet, his senior year brought a pivotal change when his coach recognized his potential and gave him the chance to start.
High school ended, and basketball seemed like a distant dream. Bean attended East-West University, but the basketball program didn’t offer much hope. With a team roster full of inconsistent players, Bean found himself distracted, eventually welcoming his first child, a daughter, into the world. Balancing fatherhood, work, and his love for basketball, Bean’s priorities shifted. Yet, he never fully let go of his hoop dreams.
Bean’s journey took a significant turn when he met a former NBA D-League player at a gym. This newfound friend became a mentor, guiding him through the complexities of professional basketball and life. With his help, Bean secured his first professional job in Germany. It was a learning experience that shaped his identity as a player and reaffirmed his passion for the game.
However, the path was far from smooth. Bean had a promising opportunity in Lithuania, but the COVID-19 pandemic put everything on hold. Resilient and determined, he attended countless camps, workouts, and combines. Most were mere fundraisers, but Bean’s relentless drive kept him pushing forward.
Post-COVID, Bean found himself in Armenia, leading the league in steals and setting personal records. His career then took him to the Dominican Republic, the Philippines, and Holland. Yet, it was in Paraguay where he truly made a name for himself. Despite the season being cut short due to federation issues, Bean’s presence in the media helped build his brand and image.
Bean’s overseas journey was riddled with challenges, from language barriers to cultural differences. Still he thrived, always emphasizing the importance of loving the grind. He believes that talent alone isn’t enough; resilience and a positive mindset are crucial for longevity in the sport.
Through all the ups and downs, Bean’s children remained his greatest motivation. They inspired him to wake up at 5 a.m. every day and put in the work. He knew that quitting was not an option, as it would set the wrong example for his kids. His nickname “Bean,” which stuck from childhood, now proudly carried on to his children, affectionately known as his “Beanies.”
Bean plans to play as long as his health permits. When the time comes to step away from the court, he envisions a future in coaching and training, eager to pass on his knowledge and experience to the next generation. His message to aspiring players is clear: hard work, dedication, and patience are the keys to success.
Keenan “Bean” Smith’s story proves the power of perseverance. Everyone’s journey is unique, and Bean’s path is a shining example that with enough determination, dreams can become reality. Follow him on Instagram to stay up to date and watch his story continue to unfold.
Published by: Holy Minoza