Margaret Harvey is an Assistant Women’s Basketball Coach at Lees-McRae College and a former collegiate basketball player and collegiate women’s basketball official with a lifelong passion for the game. Her basketball journey began with the Piedmont X-Press under the guidance of Kenny Carter, where she developed her foundation, love for competition, and commitment to the sport.
A standout player at Forsyth Country Day School, Margaret was a McDonald’s All-American nominee, set multiple school records, and earned honors including NCISAA 3A All-State and PACIS Co-Player of the Year. She continued her playing career at Old Dominion University, Mars Hill University, and the University of Coastal Georgia, gaining unique perspectives and experiences that shaped her understanding of the game, leadership, and player development.
Margaret played under coaches Delaney Rudd and Sam Warren, experiences that refined her skills and influenced her growth both on and off the court. She later served as a collegiate women’s basketball official, contributing to the women’s game with knowledge, integrity, and a deep appreciation for the athletes and coaches who make the sport special. Since joining the Lees-McRae women’s basketball program, Margaret has helped lead the Bobcats to historic success, including the program’s first-ever Conference Carolinas Women’s Basketball Championship. She is passionate about developing student-athletes, building meaningful relationships, and helping create a culture centered around growth, accountability, and excellence.
Margaret's journey has been deeply shaped by the love and support of her grandparents, Nancy and Robert Harvey, whose unwavering belief in her has been the foundation behind every opportunity and step forward. Margaret credits them as “the key to this journey” and carries their influence with her every day.
Margaret’s commitment to people extends beyond basketball and is rooted in her family’s legacy of service. With both her mother and grandmother serving as nurses, she was raised with a deep appreciation for compassion, care, and the responsibility of supporting others.The passing of her mother became a defining moment in Margaret’s life and ultimately guided her path to Lees-McRae College. Through that experience, she found a renewed purpose in serving student-athletes, creating meaningful connections, and contributing to the Banner Elk community while carrying her mother’s love, strength, and legacy with her every day.
She is grateful for the opportunity to work alongside Head Coach Lauren Galvani, Athletic Director Ed Winters, the Lees-McRae athletic department, and the many coaches, staff members, and supporters who continue to invest in the growth of Bobcat Athletics. Her favorite quote reflects her mindset and journey: “Am I dreaming or living in my dream?” Outside of basketball, Margaret enjoys hiking, music, and spending time with her two doodles, King James Valentino and Stella Rose.
