DANVILLE, Ky. - Earlier this week Centre men's basketball coach Gavin Root announced the hiring of Ed McKinney as the program's new assistant coach.

McKinney brings over two decades of high-level high school coaching experience and a proven track record of success. He has amassed 310 career wins as head coach at Danville High School and Frankfort High School. His coaching career is highlighted by the following:

• Four-time 12th Region Coach of the Year
• 11th Region Coach of the Year (2024–25) at Frankfort High School
• Three appearances in the 12th Region Finals, most recently in the 2018–19 and 2019– 20 seasons
• Seven All "A" Region Championships
• 5 consecutive seasons averaging 20+ wins at Danville

McKinney's deep ties to Kentucky basketball and proven leadership make him an asset to any collegiate coaching staff. "I couldn't be more excited to add Ed to our basketball staff," said Root. "He understands the history of Centre Basketball and our history of championship excellence. His value will not only be seen on the court with our players but off the court in his relationship skills with our players. His deep ties to Kentucky High School Basketball and proven track record make him a homerun hire."

"I'm thrilled to join the Centre College Men's Basketball Program," said McKinney. "I've long admired the tradition build by coaching greats like Tom Bryant and Greg Mason. Coach Gavin Root is poised to be one of the best young coaches in the NCAA. I'm excited to help him continue Centre's legacy of excellence."