Trenton Burleson was hired as the Assistant Men’s Basketball Coach at Lees-McRae on Oct. 9, 2020 by head coach Steve Hardin.

Burleson comes to Banner Elk following a four-year stint as an assistant football and basketball coach at his alma mater, the Mountain Heritage High School. During those four years, the varsity basketball team maintained a 84-17 overall and 36-0 conference record en route to multiple deep runs in the postseason. In addition to serving on the varsity staff, Burleson was named the Head Junior Varsity Coach for the final three seasons, leading his team to a 46-7 overall record and three-consecutive WHC titles during his tenure. The varsity football team, with Burleson on the varsity staff, held a 46-7 overall and 20-0 conference record during his four seasons. Burleson also taught Career Training and Occupational Preparation while in Burnsville, N.C.
 
“Words cannot express my gratitude for every player I have coached at Mountain Heritage over the last four years,” said Burleson. “We will have friendships for life. I also want to thank every coach I had growing up; if it were not for those guys, I would not be where I am today. I will always appreciate their positive impact on my life. I am also grateful for the football and basketball staff at Mountain Heritage over the last four years. Those guys will be some of my best friends and mentors for life.”
 
In addition to his coaching experience at Mountain Heritage, Burleson was the team captain for both the basketball and football programs during his playing career. As the team captain, Burleson led both his teams to postseason success including winning the conference championship in football and setting the two longest playoff runs in school history on the hardwood and the first state championship appearance in school history on the gridiron.
 
“My dream as always been to coach at the collegiate level,” said Burleson. “I am so blessed that this opportunity has presented itself. I have known Coach Hardin and Coach Motley for years and I could not think of a better fit. Coach Hardin has built a great culture at Lees-McRae that is based on brotherhood on and off the court. I cannot wait to join the coaching staff and player on campus, to push this program to the top on Dunk Mountain. Go Bobcats!”
 
Burleson completed his Bachelor’s Degree in Physical Education K-12 from Appalachian State University with a minor in Health Education. In addition to working numerous camps and showcases across the country, Burleson obtained his Masters of Science in Sport Management in May 2022.