Herndon lands new head basketball coach

by McAllister Pearce-Bliney, Student Writer

Austin Hamilton has taken over at the helm for the Hornets varsity basketball team. Photo by Karl Majer

There’s plenty of buzz in the Hornets Nest as the Herndon boys basketball team begins its season under new Head Coach Austin Hamilton. But the gym is hardly new territory for him. The 2011 Herndon graduate was a first-team all-state and all-metro selection, scored more than 1,000 career points, and helped lead the Hornets to their first district title during his senior year. His standout high-school career took him to Elon University, where he played at the collegiate level.

Hamilton says his biggest influence growing up was NBA star Allen Iverson. “He had the swagger and toughness that I resonated with, especially as a smaller guard,” he said. His older brothers—Walter, Brandon, and Marshall—also played a major role by introducing him to the sport and teaching him the fundamentals that shaped him as a player.

What motivated him to return to Herndon as head coach was simple: his love for the community. “I love the Herndon community first and foremost. It truly is a special place,” Hamilton said. “I’ve always had a passion for teaching the game and helping young athletes become better players and better people. There’s no place I’d rather be coaching than Herndon High School.” The town supported him as a player, and he sees this new role as a way to give back.

Now in his first season as a head coach, Hamilton embraces the challenge and the chance to lead the school he once called home. He believes this year’s team has the grit, work ethic, and determination to reach its goals—including winning the district. Players say he brings renewed energy and joy to the program.

When asked what a successful season looks like beyond wins and losses, Hamilton was clear: “Having a memorable experience for the players, fans, and everyone associated with the program is what I hope this year brings.”

He also stresses that Herndon Basketball should unite the school and wider community. Off the court, he expects his players to maintain a 3.0 GPA or higher, graduate on time, and give back through service—showing that the program values character as much as athletic ability.

Hamilton and his brothers also founded The Goods Basketball, an organization focused not only on developing basketball skills, but also on teaching life lessons. It’s another sign of his commitment to the community where he grew up.