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Kentucky seeks new athletics director to replace Mitch Barnhart

Yahoo Sports • 1 min read • Latest: Jun 5, 2026, 9:11 AM

Last updated Jun 5, 2026

Kentucky seeks new athletics director to replace Mitch Barnhart

Summary

Mitch Barnhart, Kentucky's long-serving athletics director, plans to retire at the end of June after 24 years. As the university prepares to find his successor, there are calls for an emphasis on support for women's sports, revenue generation, and maintaining the athletic department's overall success. Coaches, including Kenny Brooks and Will Stein, express what attributes they hope to see in Barnhart's replacement, highlighting the need for a strong advocate for women's basketball and effective leadership skills. SEC commissioner Greg Sankey reflects on Barnhart's legacy and the evolving role of the AD in modern collegiate athletics.

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By the Numbers

•Mitch Barnhart retires at the end of June 2026.
•Kenny Brooks emphasizes the need for support in women's basketball.
•Will Stein seeks a leader who knows athletes' names and cares for them.
•SEC commissioner Greg Sankey reflects on Barnhart's impact on the SEC.
•Kentucky looks for an AD to manage greater financial and administrative complexities.

Latest Updates

9:11 AMYahoo Sports — What does Kentucky need from new AD after Mitch Barnhart retires?

What they're saying

"
An athletics director's job description has changed a lot since Mitch Barnhart started at UK in 2002. What do the Wildcats want from his replacement?
— Yahoo Sports

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