The562’s coverage of Jordan Athletics is sponsored by former LBUSD superintendent Chris Steinhauser and the Timu Foundation.
Wesley Rosenbaum has embodied the fighting spirit that the city of Long Beach lives on. After taking over the Jordan Girls’ Basketball program in 2021, Rosenbaum led his team to their first Moore League championship since 1996.
Rosenbaum has been steadily building his team, posting a 12-9 overall record in his first year and jumping to a 21-9 record just two years later. In the latest winter season, the Panthers once again finished 21-9 overall with a 10-2 Moore League record.
It’s been a consistent incline of improvement for Rosenbaum’s program – a team he sees as the underdogs. Last year, the team had a top-three finish in the Moore League before fighting their way to the top this season.
A slow and steady fight paid off for J-Town under Rosenbaum’s leadership. In their historic season this year, Jordan beat Moore League powerhouse Long Beach Poly in both of their contests — but for Rosenbaum, these wins are more than just what shows on the scoreboard.
“The wins are great, but it’s a level of basketball that we’re proud of, and the players and their development and belief in themselves,” Rosenbaum said. “I’m really happy about the wins, yes, but it makes me reflect on how much work we’ve put in together, our coaching staff and our players.”
Rosenbaum’s dedication on the North Side is a testament to the fighting spirit he carries. Aside from leading his team to a league championship, Rosenbaum reached a major milestone of his own career.
With a 59-30 victory over Mayfair in January, Rosenbaum captured his 100th win in the state of California. He has also become the Jordan Girls’ Athletic Director, showcasing his loyalty and dedication to Jordan High School and the program he has built with girls’ basketball.
Rosenbaum’s strength and leadership has proven itself time and time again during his time at Jordan High School, and the head coach encapsulates the Spirit of Long Beach year after year.
