Austin Spurs Finalized New Coaching Staff
The G League team appointed its new support personnel ahead of the season opener on November 8, 2026.
Updated on Oct. 2, 2026 in People
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Austin Spurs head coach Chris Kent has set his coaching staff for the upcoming season, bringing in new leadership and promoting from within. The team announced these personnel changes on October 2 as they prepare to return to the court.
Why it matters
The roster of coaches and support staff sets the team's developmental strategy for the season, a critical period for players looking to advance their professional careers. These roles define the daily training operations leading into the team's home games at the H-E-B Center in Cedar Park.
Associate head coach Carson Shanks joins the staff following three years with the New York Knicks, while player development coordinator Tristen Licon brings experience from his previous tenure with the Austin Spurs organization.
The players
Chris Kent
He serves as the head coach of the Austin Spurs.
Carson Shanks
He is the newly appointed associate head coach with a background in video and analytics for the New York Knicks.
Tristen Licon
He has been promoted to the role of player development and performance coordinator for the team.
Jackie Hua
She joins the organization as the new head athletic trainer.
Kevin Williamson
He serves as the newly hired strength and conditioning coach for the team.
The details
Head coach Chris Kent finalized the staff by hiring Carson Shanks as associate head coach and Jackie Hua as head athletic trainer, alongside Kevin Williamson who joins as strength and conditioning coach. Tristen Licon has been promoted to player development and performance coordinator after working with the team last season. The staff will oversee operations for the Austin Spurs as they prepare for the 2026 season tip-off.
Timeline
October 2, 2026: The new coaching staff was officially announced.
November 8, 2026: The Austin Spurs are scheduled to open their season.
The Texas Context
These appointments follow the organizational shifts seen across the league following the conclusion of the 2026 NBA Finals. The new staff structure mirrors broader trends in team development as the Spurs look to build on their performance heading into the winter schedule.
Local fans heading to the H-E-B Center in Cedar Park for the season opener on November 8 will see the results of these new coaching staff additions. The changes finalize the support structure available to players throughout the 2026 season.
The takeaway
The team has finalized its leadership structure to prepare for a new season. Supporters should monitor the team's official roster updates as the November 8 season opener approaches.
What happens next
The Austin Spurs will hold their season opener on November 8, 2026.
Further reading
Keep up with the latest personnel moves across the city on our Austin People page.
Source note: This article includes information reported by Sports Illustrated.
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