Blue Mountain, Miss.- Blue Mountain Christian University has named Karnard McCray as an assistant coach for the women's basketball program. 
McCray brings a unique combination of coaching experience, ministry leadership, and a passion for developing student-athletes that aligns with the mission of Blue Mountain Christian University.
A native of Baker County, Florida, McCray arrives at BMCU after spending the 2025-26 season at Pellissippi State Community College in Knoxville, Tennessee. 
McCray began the season as an assistant coach with the Panthers men's basketball program before joining the women's basketball staff midway through the year. He helped guide Pellissippi State to a TJCCAA Quarterfinal appearance during the season.
Prior to Pellissippi State, McCray gained valuable coaching experience with the Memphis Home Education Association (MHEA) in Memphis, Tennessee. 
He spent three seasons as an assistant coach for the MHEA 18U boys team, helping lead the program to two Boys 18U Undisputed National Championships.
McCray also served as the head coach of the MHEA 16U boys team, compiling a 50-22 record over two seasons. 
Under his leadership, the team advanced to two National Christian Homeschool Championship Final Four appearances and reached the Big South Regional Championship game twice, capturing the regional title in 2024.
While his coaching résumé is impressive, McCray's journey into coaching began through ministry. 
During his time in Memphis, he served as a full-time missionary with the North American Mission Board. 
It was through that role that he discovered coaching as a powerful avenue for discipleship and mentorship.
McCray earned his bachelor's degree from Carson-Newman University with a degree in Religion and a Missions emphasis. 
He plans to pursue his master's degree while serving at Blue Mountain Christian University.
Currently a member of First Baptist Church Macclenny in Macclenny, Florida, McCray is excited to become part of the North Mississippi community and begin searching for a church home in the area.
"I am honored and grateful to accept the position of Assistant Women's Basketball Coach at BMCU," McCray said. "Coach Rice's leadership and vision for this program made this an opportunity I was eager to be a part of. BMCU is a program on the rise, and I look forward to serving our student-athletes, building meaningful relationships, and helping pursue excellence on and off the court."
BMCU Women's Basketball Head Coach Tracy Rice believes McCray's experience and servant-minded leadership make him an ideal fit for the lady Topper program.
"I am excited about Karnard joining our staff," Rice said. "His work in missions and coaching set him apart during the hiring process. Karnard is great with people and his leadership will be a great asset to the future of Blue Mountain women's basketball and our university."
McCray joins a Blue Mountain Christian women's basketball program committed to developing student-athletes spiritually, academically, and athletically. 
His background in coaching and ministry reflects the values of the university and will help continue building a culture of excellence within the Lady Topper program.
 
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