From Player to Coach of the Year: Lincoln University Alumnus Jared Boone Makes History at Benton High School

Jared Boone in 2007 during his Lincoln University basketball career. Now the head coach at Benton, he was named Missouri High School Coach of the Year after leading his team to its first state championship appearance in 84 years. Photo courtesy of Lincoln University Archives.

Blue Tigers have always been known for their determination and excellence, and Lincoln University alumnus Jared Boone exemplifies these qualities perfectly. The former Lincoln basketball player was recently named Missouri State High School Activities Association (MSHSAA) Coach of the Year for boys basketball, capping off a remarkable season that brought his alma mater, Benton High School, its first state championship appearance in 84 years.

A Foundation Built at Lincoln University
Boone attended Lincoln University from 2006-2008, playing basketball for the Blue Tigers after transferring from North Central Missouri College.

"My basketball experience was fun," Boone said. "We didn't win very many games but I had a lot of fun with my teammates. My experience at LU influenced my coaching philosophy ... It taught me the value of holding your players accountable."

Historic Achievement at Benton High School
In his fifth year as head coach at Benton High School, Boone led the Cardinals to an unprecedented 28-4 record during the 2024-25 season. The team reached the Final Four for the first time since 1992 and advanced to the state championship game for the first time since 1941, ultimately finishing as state runners-up.

"My proudest moment as Benton's coach was being able to lead my alma mater to the Final 4 and to play for a state championship and seeing the community come together to support us," Boone said.

Recognition and Future Goals
The MSHSAA Coach of the Year award represents the highest honor for high school coaches in Missouri. Boone approaches this recognition with characteristic humility.

"It means a lot to me personally," he said. "It is an amazing honor to achieve in my profession. This is not an award I set out to win, but I am definitely humbled and honored to win it."

Looking ahead, Boone has set an ambitious goal for the upcoming season: "The goal for this year is to make it back to the Final 4."

A Blue Tiger Success Story
Boone's journey from Lincoln University student-athlete to MSHSAA Coach of the Year represents the kind of professional achievement the university celebrates in its alumni. His success at Benton demonstrates the leadership and dedication that continue to define Blue Tigers in their professional careers.

As basketball season approaches, the Lincoln University community can take pride in celebrating one of its own who has reached the pinnacle of high school coaching while making a lasting impact on young athletes in his community.

For more information about Lincoln University's athletics programs, visit the Blue Tiger Athletics website.