Austin Peay State University is reshaping its basketball operations ahead of the 2026‑27 season, promoting Kelvin Lee Jr. to the role of Director of Player Personnel and welcoming Dalton Waggoner as a graduate assistant. The moves are designed to build on the program’s recent breakthrough and to reinforce a culture of continuity and ambition.
Lee, who previously served as a graduate assistant while completing a master’s degree in health and human performance, played a pivotal part in the Governors’ first‑ever ASUN Men’s Basketball Championship during the 2025‑26 campaign. His deep understanding of the team’s dynamics and his proven ability to support player development position him well for the expanded responsibilities of overseeing player personnel.
A Proven Track Record
During the 2025‑26 season, Lee’s contributions helped the Governors advance to the Elite Eight, a milestone that underscored the program’s rising competitiveness. His work complemented that of Corey Gipson, who praised both Lee and Waggoner for their leadership, commitment, and work ethic in their new roles.
Dalton Waggoner arrives after a stint as a student manager for the University of Tennessee Volunteers, where he assisted with team workouts and travel logistics. A double major in accounting and finance, Waggoner also helped the Volunteers reach the Elite Eight during his tenure, bringing a blend of operational expertise and analytical rigor to the Governors’ staff.
Strategic Vision for the Future
The university’s leadership believes that the combination of Lee’s player‑focused insight and Waggoner’s administrative experience will strengthen recruitment, retention, and overall program stability. By leveraging their combined backgrounds, Austin Peay aims to sustain momentum and pursue further success within the ASUN conference and beyond.
Coach Corey Gipson emphasized that the new appointments reflect a deliberate effort to reward internal talent while infusing fresh perspectives. "Their dedication to the program is evident, and I am confident that their combined expertise will elevate our team’s performance on and off the court," he said.