Truett McConnell University is set to welcome two new assistants to its men’s basketball program as the 2026‑27 season approaches. Kaylee O’Herron and Samuel Ashley have been added to the coaching roster, bringing a mix of experience that the school hopes will translate into on‑court growth.
A Fresh Coaching Vision
Kaylee O’Herron arrives after stints as an assistant at Chandler‑Gilbert Community College and Scottsdale Community College, where she helped shape defensive schemes and player development. Prior to that she served as the assistant boys varsity coach at Shadow Mountain High School in Phoenix, Arizona, and honed her skills while completing a Bachelor of Science in Behavioral Health Science at South Mountain College. Outside of basketball she works as a Registered Behavior Technician, providing Applied Behavior Analysis therapy, and volunteers with the Fellowship of Christian Athletes, linking her professional background with a commitment to character building.
Samuel Ashley joins the staff after a season as a student assistant at Bob Jones University in Greenville, South Carolina, where he also earned a Bachelor of Science in Sports Management. Ashley previously headed the Greenville Hurricanes homeschool program from 2023 to 2025, guiding a roster of young athletes through both competition and personal development. His background blends strategic sports management with hands‑on coaching experience, positioning him to contribute immediately to Truett McConnell’s tactical approach.
Both newcomers share a common thread of community involvement and faith‑based outreach. Their affiliations with the Fellowship of Christian Athletes and their academic roots at institutions such as South Mountain College and Bob Jones University underscore a shared philosophy that success on the court is inseparable from personal growth and mentorship.
Looking Ahead
Head Coach Chris McCorry expressed confidence that O’Herron’s behavioral health perspective and Ashley’s managerial acumen will enrich the program’s culture and competitiveness. As the team prepares for the upcoming schedule, the added depth on the bench is expected to foster greater resilience, smarter gameplay, and a stronger connection between athletes and the broader campus community.