AJ Clark will join the Appalachian State Mountaineers men's basketball staff as an assistant coach beginning in July 2026, bringing a blend of playing excellence and coaching acumen that spans multiple levels of collegiate basketball.
Clark’s playing career began at Pfeiffer University in North Carolina, where he earned All‑America honors, served as a four‑year captain, and was named team MVP three times. He led the Falcons to a conference championship and an NCAA Tournament appearance in 2017 while averaging more than 21 points per game and guiding the team to a top‑25 national ranking.
A Coaching Journey Across Divisions
After graduating, Clark launched his coaching career as an assistant at Young Harris College during the 2019‑20 season. He then moved to Palm Beach Atlantic University, where over two seasons the Sailfish posted the second‑best winning percentage in program Division II history. His next stop was Georgia Southwestern State University, where he served as assistant, defensive coordinator and recruiting coordinator from 2020‑22, helping the team secure an at‑large NCAA Tournament berth in 2021.
Clark’s most recent role was at Eastern Kentucky, where he contributed to a program that ranked among the nation’s top 40 in several key metrics. Under his guidance the Colonels posted an 11.3 three‑point makes per game average, placing them seventh nationally, and captured 18 wins in the 2024‑25 season, including 12 conference victories.
Player Development Highlights
During his tenure at Eastern Kentucky, Clark helped develop forward Montavious Myrick and guard Turner Buttry into all‑conference performers. He also coached Mayar Wol, who earned the ASUN Sixth Man of the Year award. Several players he mentored have continued their careers professionally in Australia, Portugal, Serbia, Spain and Estonia.
Looking Ahead
With a résumé that includes NCAA Division II tournament experience as both a player and a coach, Clark is expected to bring a strong work ethic and a deep understanding of player development to Appalachian State. His appointment signals the program’s intent to bolster recruiting pipelines and enhance competitive depth as the Mountaineers aim for sustained success in the coming seasons.