CYPRESS, CA- Cypress Athletics remembers the legendary career of Assistant Men's Basketball Coach and Chemistry Professor, Tom Lubin. On July 1, 2020 Coach Lubin lost his battle with Lewy Body Dementia at the age of 80. Lubin played a vital role in the Chargers' two CCCAA State Championships in 1977 and 1980 and was later inducted into the Cypress College Athletics Hall of Fame in 2017. Tom is survived by his wife of 56 years, Dorothy, two daughters, Lora and Kara, and four grandchildren, Henry, Lucille, Mildred, and Paris.
After completing his master's degree at San Diego State University in 1964, Lubin was hired at Cypress College as a chemistry professor and soon became an assistant basketball coach under legendary head coach, Don Johnson, winning several state championships and teaching countless players. As an original faculty memeber at Cypress College, Lubin has always been known as a devoted, encouraging, and helpful mentor. As an assistant men's basketball coach and full-time chemistry instructor at Cypress College, he inspired students on and off the court. He understands his subjects deeply, not just the "how" but the "why". He provided a setting for self-discovery in the classroom and at practice, while teaching a desire for excellence that helped students believe in themselves.
Two of his largest success stories as a basketball coach were the mentorship of former NBA players and UCLA standouts Swen Nater and Mark Eaton. Lubin was more than a coach to his players, and shared a unique relationship with Cypress Hall of Famer, Swen Nater. Tom rescued Nater from a horrific foster care situation and spent countless hours in the Gym preparing him for what would become a decorated basketball career in the ABA and NBA. Tom's commitment and investment in Swen was unique but not uncommon as it exemplified the power of the coach both in the classroom on and off the court.
In a 2015 interview at Cypress College, Coach Don Johnson mentioned the importance of his coaching staff, stating, "The most important quality a basketball coach can have is the passion to love his players". Lubin loved his students and brought energy to a new Cypress program that helped build the foundation of the T.S.U (Tough, Smart, Unselfish) montra that will live in perpetuity.
Due to the current COVID-19 pandemic and state and federal restrictions, the family has chosen to follow the health guidelines and will not have a public memorial service at this time.
In lieu of a service, flowers, and cards, the Lubin Family ask loved ones, former students, players, friends, and associates to make a donation to the Cypress College Foundation, and to consider including a note in memory of Tom to accompany your donation.
(Tom Lubin's (right) 2017 Hall of Fame Induction Poster)
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