Austin Burnette has been named Head Post Graduate Basketball Coach at Hargrave Military Academy. A proud alumnus of the Academy, Austin returns to lead one of the nation’s premier prep basketball programs, bringing with him Division I coaching experience, a strong background in player development, and a deep appreciation for Hargrave’s tradition of excellence. He succeeds Ben Veshi, who served as Head Post Graduate Basketball Coach from 2023 to 2026 and is now on the coaching staff at Eastern Kentucky University.
“Austin’s energy, basketball IQ, and commitment to developing young men both on and off the court make him an outstanding fit to lead our Post Graduate Basketball program,” said Sloan Gibson, President of Hargrave Military Academy. “He understands what makes Hargrave special, and we are confident in his ability to build upon our tradition while continuing to prepare athletes for success at the next level.”
Austin’s connection to Hargrave runs deep. In 2016, he was a member of the Academy’s National Prep Championship team – an experience that helped shape his approach to leadership, discipline, and player development. He later returned to Hargrave as a Post-Graduate Assistant Coach, supporting recruiting, scouting, and daily program operations.
“I am thrilled to welcome Austin Burnette back to Hargrave Military Academy to lead our Post-Graduate Basketball program. Austin embodies the values that define this institution: discipline, integrity, and a relentless pursuit of excellence,” said Patrick Henry, Director of Athletics. “His experience at the Division I level, combined with his firsthand understanding of Hargrave’s culture, positions him exceptionally well to mentor and develop our cadet-athletes. We are confident that under his leadership, our program will continue to thrive and prepare young men for success both on the court and in life.”
Following his time at Hargrave, Austin continued his basketball journey at Campbell University, where he was part of a Big South Conference Championship team and competed in multiple postseason tournaments. After completing his playing career, he transitioned into coaching, serving as an Assistant Men’s Basketball Coach at Campbell and previously at the University of North Alabama. In these roles, he contributed to scouting preparation, film analysis, and player development, while supporting recruiting efforts and utilizing advanced analytics to enhance game planning and performance.
“I am incredibly honored to return to Hargrave Military Academy and lead the Post Graduate Basketball program,” said Burnette. “Hargrave has had a profound impact on my life, and I am excited for the opportunity to invest in the next generation, helping them grow as players, cadets, and young men of character.”
Austin holds a Bachelor of Science in Sport Management from Campbell University and a Master of Science in Hospitality and Tourism Management from Florida International University.
At Hargrave, Austin will lead a program with a rich history of national success and player advancement, continuing to develop elite talent while upholding the Academy’s commitment to excellence across its four pillars: Academics, Character, Faith, and Athletics.
We are excited to welcome Austin back to the Hargrave community and look forward to the leadership, passion, and vision he will bring to our Post Graduate Basketball program.
