Richmond adds Richardson to Hawks staff
Former Clinton Dragons standout Carson Richardson returns to the program where he began his basketball journey, joining the Clinton Middle School boys basketball coaching staff as an assistant for the 2026-27 season. Richardson starred for the Dragons before graduating in 2025. (photo:File Photo )
After starring on the hardwood at Clinton Middle and Clinton High, Richardson is back where his basketball journey began, joining new Hawks Head Coach Nick Richmond’s staff as an assistant.
Clinton Middle’s boys basketball team returns to the court this week following the conclusion of the TSSAA-mandated two-week dead period. The Hawks are permitted to hold workouts throughout July.
Richmond replaces Matt McGhee, who coached the Hawks last season. A former Clinton Middle and Clinton High standout in football and basketball, Richmond previously served as the Hawks’ junior varsity coach.
Richardson, a 2025 Clinton High graduate who played under longtime Dragons Coach Chris Lockard, quickly embraced the opportunity to return to the program.
“I coached one of the boys in AAU,” Richardson said. “And I talked to Nick and I came on.
“This means a lot to me because I was kind of successful as a basketball player, and it feels really good to come back to where I played middle school basketball. It’s really important for me to get the chance to come here and teach the game to the next generation of Clinton High School basketball players.”
A lifelong Clinton resident, Richardson said his connection to the community makes the opportunity even more meaningful.
“I’ve been around Clinton all my life, and that’s why this is so important to me,” he said. “I’ve been playing basketball here since I was 4. I started playing at the South Clinton Optimists Club.”
Although his playing days are over, Richardson still enjoys getting on the court when he can.
“I miss playing the game badly,” he said.
Away from basketball, Richardson enjoys spending time with family, attending church and fishing.
“I just love to fish,” he said. “I love church and I love hanging out with my family.
“I also love the Vols. I love watching them in every sport. I love watching them play football, baseball and basketball.”
