A New Chapter for the Lava Bears
The Bend High boys basketball program has named Tyler Hayes as its new head coach, a move that comes after a 12‑13 season for the Lava Bears and a search for fresh leadership. Hayes, a 2002 graduate of Bend High, returns to the school where he once chased down every record in the program’s history.
Family Roots and Future Aspirations
During his high school career he amassed 1,603 points, a tally that still stands as the all‑time mark, and he spent those years as a ballboy under the guidance of his father, Don Hayes, who helmed the team from 1990 to 2013.
After stints at North Idaho Community College and San Diego Christian College, Hayes brought his game back to Central Oregon, where he has spent recent years directing the Youth Basketball Program and leading the BOSS Basketball club as head coach.
His son, Loke Hayes, recently completed his freshman season on the varsity squad, continuing what locals call the ‘Long Blue Line’ of Hayes family contributions to the school.
Hayes says his primary aim is to guide the Bears to their first winning season and playoff appearance since 2023, a goal that resonates with a community that has watched the program’s fortunes rise and fall over the past decade.
With a blend of familial legacy, coaching experience, and a fresh perspective, the new coaching staff hopes to rewrite the narrative and bring sustained success to Bend High basketball.