Augusta University

Lenny Carlson's influence on Augusta basketball spans more than six decades, beginning with his arrival in 1968 during one of the most pivotal transitions in school history. Hired by head coach and athletic director Marvin Vanover, Carlson immediately recognized that Augusta College, like many schools in the South at the time, had not yet integrated its basketball program. Having grown up in Massachusetts and served as captain on racially diverse teams at the University of Connecticut, Carlson pushed for change. Working with Vanover and with support from the university president, he helped recruit Augusta College's first black players, making Augusta the first predominantly white college in Georgia to field an integrated basketball team and sign a foreign player. That first group of trailblazing student-athletes, which included standout talents such as Erwin "Chip" Johnson, Joe "Jumping Joe" McBride, and Steve Brown, along with international center George Schraepen, immediately elevated the program. Their arrival helped Augusta to a 24–4 record, a District 25 championship, and a trip to the 1970 NAIA National Tournament. Carlson's efforts not only changed the trajectory of Jaguar basketball but also paved the way for generations of players who would follow.

Carlson returned to Augusta in 2006, where he spent 17 more years on the Jaguar bench. During that time, he was part of every major milestone in the modern era: Peach Belt Conference championships, NCAA Tournament runs, Elite Eight appearances, Final Fours, and the 2008 and 2023 NCAA Division II National Championship games. Working alongside head coach Dip Metress, he became a fixture of Augusta basketball, known for his steady presence, his ability to connect with players, and his long-term commitment to the program.

After concluding his coaching career following the 2022–23 season, Carlson transitioned into broadcasting, where he continues to share his basketball knowledge as a commentator for Augusta's basketball broadcasts.