A renowned coaching figure with a track record of revitalizing basketball programs, Kevin Carroll has officially been appointed as the new head coach for Lipscomb University's men's basketball team. This announcement by Athletic Director Philip Hutcheson ushers in an era of promise and potential for the institution. Carroll's return to Lipscomb comes after a period of unparalleled success at Trevecca Nazarene University within NCAA Division II, where he set numerous records, including the most victories in the program’s history and securing the school’s first-ever South Region Poll ranking.

Leading With Vision: The Future Under Carroll's Guidance

The appointment of Kevin Carroll marks a significant chapter in Lipscomb's storied basketball legacy. Hutcheson expressed excitement over Carroll's return, highlighting his exceptional basketball acumen and deep-rooted values aligning perfectly with the university’s ethos. Beyond technical expertise, Carroll is celebrated for forging lasting bonds with players, evident from his enduring connections with both past and present athletes. His forward-thinking approach ensures Lipscomb remains competitive amidst evolving dynamics in collegiate sports.Carroll's understanding of basketball's trajectory positions him uniquely to lead Lipscomb into its next phase. Recognized not only for tactical brilliance but also integrity and vision, he embodies what it means to build programs sustainably. As President Candice McQueen emphasized, Carroll's commitment to excellence extends beyond wins and losses, focusing on holistic development of student-athletes while reinforcing community values integral to Lipscomb's identity.

Building On Success: A New Era Begins

Kevin Carroll inherits a program fresh off one of its most triumphant seasons in Division I history. Achievements include a second NCAA tournament appearance, securing the fourth ASUN regular season championship, and achieving consecutive 20-plus win campaigns—a feat accomplished just once previously during the Division I era. Preceding Carroll, Lennie Acuff's departure to Samford University leaves behind a robust foundation ripe for further enhancement under new leadership.In accepting this prestigious role, Carroll conveys profound respect for those who paved the way and acknowledges the high standards established thus far. Alongside his dedicated staff, Carroll pledges relentless effort to uphold these benchmarks while amplifying awareness about Lipscomb as a premier Christian university. His enthusiasm resonates clearly through heartfelt affirmations such as "Horns Up!"

Coaching Excellence: A Legacy Defined By Turnarounds

Born in Wildwood, Georgia, Kevin Carroll brings over two decades of extensive coaching experience spanning various levels of competition. Among his notable accomplishments are twelve years serving as a head coach across high school and collegiate arenas. At Trevecca Nazarene University, Carroll masterminded one of college basketball's most dramatic transformations during the 2023–24 season, elevating the team's victory count by fourteen games and tying a longstanding school record for wins. Subsequent achievements shattered additional program milestones related to overall and conference triumphs alongside attaining their inaugural South Region ranking.Prior to Trevecca, Carroll helmed Maryville University-St. Louis between 2010–2017, steering them successfully through a pivotal transition from NCAA Division III to Division II. During this tenure, he established multiple program records, culminating in a remarkable 23-win season—their best performance in thirty-five years. Additionally, he mentored standout performers recognized as All-Conference selections, GLVC Player of the Year awardees, and DII All-Americans. Earlier stints at St. Pius X Catholic High School saw Carroll engineer another turnaround, progressing from a modest six-win debut year to capturing twenty-four victories in his third campaign while clinching only the second region title in the institution's fifty-year existence.

Foundational Roots: From Player To Educator

Kevin Carroll embarked upon his coaching journey following distinguished playing days at Berry College, where he graduated with a bachelor’s degree in mathematics education. Further academic pursuits led him to earn a Master of Arts in Health Sciences at the University of Alabama. These foundational experiences shaped his early career, initially working as an assistant coach at institutions like the University of Alabama-Huntsville, United States Air Force Academy—contributing significantly to their first-ever Mountain West Conference tournament win—and Virginia Military Institute.Each step along Carroll's professional path underscores his dedication to nurturing talent, fostering teamwork, and cultivating environments conducive to personal growth alongside athletic achievement. His comprehensive approach transcends traditional coaching paradigms, emphasizing character development and long-term impact on individuals fortunate enough to learn under his tutelage. As Lipscomb embarks on this exciting new chapter, expectations remain sky-high thanks to Carroll's proven ability to inspire greatness both on and off the court.