HARRISONBURG, Va. – James Madison women's basketball head coach
Sean O'Regan has announced the return of alumna
Lexie Barrier, who will join the JMU staff as an assistant coach.
"I couldn't be prouder and more excited to have Lexie back with us," exclaimed O'Regan. "She has a brilliant basketball mind, she knows me and knows the expectations of this program. Her knowledge and experience in recruiting will be a great boost for us as well."
Barrier returns to Harrisonburg following a one-year stint at future Sun Belt competitor Marshall. During her time with the Thundering Herd, Barrier acted as the recruiting coordinator, assisted in player development and served as the academic liaison for players, helping guide the team to a 3.5 overall GPA.
"I'm so excited to be back at JMU! It's such a special place," commented Barrier. "I know what this program is about, so I look forward to getting with everybody and getting to work!"
Prior to her time at Marshall, Barrier served as a graduate manager for NC State during the 2020-21 season. The Wolfpack ranked seventh nationally in the final USA Today Coaches Poll to end the year in the top 10 for the third-straight season. That came on the heels of a 22-3 record, back-to-back ACC titles and its third consecutive NCAA Sweet 16 appearance. NC State spent every week of the season in the top 10 of the Coaches Poll, which included three-straight weeks at No. 2.
While with the Dukes, Barrier started in 96 of 127 games played. She totaled 1,216 career points, which ties for 21
st in program history alongside soon-to-be senior guard
Kiki Jefferson. Barrier averaged 9.6 points, 3.9 rebounds and 1.9 assists throughout her four years at JMU. She collected two All-CAA honors and a spot on the All-Rookie squad following the 2016-17 season.
Barrier, a native of Ironton, Ohio, graduated from JMU in May 2020 with a bachelor's degree in Sport & Recreation Management before earning her MBA in Adult and Continuing Professional Education from NC State in 2021.