A Strategic Addition for the Mountaineers
App State Men’s Basketball has announced the hiring of Carson Barrett as an assistant coach for the upcoming 2026-27 season. The move signals the program’s intent to bolster its coaching staff with a proven track record of success at the highest levels of college basketball.
Barrett arrives after a stint as a graduate assistant at Purdue, where he contributed to a season that culminated in a Big Ten Championship and an Elite Eight appearance. Purdue finished with a 30-9 record, the second-best mark in program history, and Barrett was part of a senior class that set a school record with 110 victories.
Head coach Dustin Kerns praised Barrett’s character, basketball IQ, and championship pedigree, emphasizing that his experience will help elevate the Mountaineers’ culture of excellence. Kerns noted that Barrett’s background aligns perfectly with the program’s ambitions and its commitment to competing at the top tier of the sport.
A Family Legacy Meets New Opportunities
Barrett’s connection to basketball runs deep in his family. His father, Dave Barrett, enjoyed a long coaching career at Lafayette Central Catholic High School, while his brother Drake now serves as the head coach at the same school. This lineage of leadership and competitiveness has shaped Carson’s approach to the game and his desire to contribute meaningfully to any program he joins.
Expressing enthusiasm about the new role, Barrett highlighted his excitement to become part of the App State community and to help drive the program forward. He stated that he looks forward to collaborating with the coaching staff, players, and fans to build on the foundation of excellence already established at the university.