CHARLOTTE, N.C. – Queens University of Charlotte head men's basketball coach Grant Leonard is thrilled to announce the addition of Walt Belcher as an assistant coach and special assistant to the head coach on Thursday afternoon. Belcher joins the Royals after serving as an assistant coach at Missouri State-West Plains last season.
 
"Coach B. brings a career of experience to Queens as both a basketball coach in college and high school, but also a school administrator," said Coach Leonard. "His ability to relate to players and develop players has been evident throughout the years. We are all excited Dr. Walt has decided to join our program!"
 
As an assistant with the Grizzlies last season, Belcher assisted with recruiting, game preparations, scouting reports, film breakdown, practices, skill development, and academic support. Missouri State-West Plains posted an 11-19 overall record last year, including a Region XVI Quarterfinal appearance.
 
Prior to moving to Missouri, Belcher was the head assistant coach at Indian River State College for seven seasons. Belcher worked under current Royals associate head coach Charlie Wilson and assisted with recruiting, game preparation, practices, press releases, academic support, and summer camps. With the Pioneers, Belcher guided the program to national prominence at the NJCAA level, including a No. 2 ranking in the NJCAA D1 national polls.
 
In 2021, the Pioneers squad set a school record with 28 wins, finishing second in the Region VIII Tournament. Indian River State College produced multiple All-Americans and back-to-back NJCAA Region VIII Players of the Year.
 
Belcher cracked the collegiate ranks as the head assistant coach at Central Methodist College under Charlie Wilson. While on staff with the Eagles, he assisted with recruiting efforts, game preparation, practices, lifting program, and summer camps. Central Methodist College produced multiple NAIA Division 1 All-Americans and multiple Conference Players of the Year.
 
One of the most successful high school coaches in the country, Belcher spent 14 years leading high school athletes. In that span, he produced nine district championship appearances, six district titles, and four conference titles. In addition to coaching, Belcher has extensive experience in teaching and administration as he served as a middle school principal and college instructor.
 
Belcher is an established scholar with a doctorate in educational leadership. In 2001, he published his first piece called, "Developing the Hands of Your Post Player." Two years later, Belcher published his second piece called "You Can't Teach Size: But you can develop a Post Player."
 
"I really appreciate the opportunity to join Coach Grant Leonard's staff at Queens University," said Belcher. "The men's program has a reputation of producing outstanding college basketball teams that compete at the highest level and I'm excited to be part of the process."
 
The Royals' success in their inaugural Division 1 season came from a significant number of players who will be returning. AJ McKee was one of the most consistent performers for Queens reaching double figures in 31-of-33 games and being named ASUN Third Team All-Conference. The Charlotte native averaged 15.4 points, 4.3 rebounds, and 1.8 assists per game as he was top 10 in the ASUN in scoring. Prior to going down with a season-ending injury, Gavin Rains led the league in rebounds bringing down 10.2 boards per game. BJ McLaurin, Kalib Mathews, and Chris Ashby are also key returners for the Royals as the trio averaged 23.2 minutes, 8.3 points, and 2.9 rebounds per game.
 
Fans should stay tuned for more information regarding the 2023-24 season, including the official schedule release. Season tickets are on sale and available for purchase by visiting the Queens Athletics website. The Royals are on Twitter, Instagram, and Tik Tok. Fans are also encouraged to follow Queens Athletics on social media to stay up to date on all the Royals sports in action.