Leon Bell began his sports career playing basketball in the West Chester School District in 1967 at North Junior High School. He continued at Henderson High School from 1968-1970 under the coaching of Jack McClellan. Bell’s basketball ability became evident as he played varsity basketball for three years. Leon was an outstanding scorer, rebounder and shot blocker in the Ches-Mont League during his high school career. He was in the top five in the county in those categories during his varsity career - leading Henderson to three Ches-Mont League championships. Bell also played in two District One championship games at the famed Palestra, was named to numerous All Ches-Mont teams, and was also named to the All-State Basketball Team his senior year. He continued his basketball playing career at Cheyney (State) University under Basketball Hall of Fame coach, John Chaney (Temple). Leon was very successful on the college level where he averaged double figures in rebounding and points scored per game. Bell was named captain of the basketball team his senior year-during which the team was dominant in the PSAC League. He was inducted into the Cheyney Hall of Fame in 2004 -capping a successful playing career at Cheyney State. Leon then began a highly successful coaching career at West Chester Henderson High School, his alma mater. Known for his dedication to the game, preaching fundamentals and instilling discipline in his teams, Coach Bell provided 14 years of winning basketball to the Warriors’ program. He coached many athletes who went on to play in college and then became basketball coaches. Leon showed concern for his players both on the court during the season and off the court in the classroom - teaching life lessons. Bell enjoyed many fruitful years in the Ches-Mont League, and he is the only coach to have won three league titles as a player and three as a coach in the league’s history. Leon was named Coach of the Year by the Daily Local News four consecutive years after winning four straight Ches-Mont League championships. His teams participated in many District One competitions during his coaching tenure.