Veteran baseball coach Chris Hart has been named the 17th head coach in the history of the NC State program. Hart has served on the Wolfpack baseball staff for the past 22 seasons. He replaces Elliott Avent, who announced his retirement Thursday after 30 years as skipper.
“As I’ve watched Chris over the years, I’ve been more and more impressed with him in many ways,” said Athletics Director Boo Corrigan. “He’s a nationally-recognized recruiter, has a wealth of baseball knowledge and is a great representative of our program. He loves NC State and has chosen to stay, despite numerous opportunities to leave. We could go out and search nationally for our new head coach, but I’m so glad that we didn’t have to because the best man for the job was right here.”
“I am thrilled and honored to be named head coach at a place that I love and that has become home,” said Hart. “I want to thank Boo Corrigan for giving me this opportunity and for believing in me to lead this program. NC State is a special place, and this baseball program means so much to me. I understand the standard of excellence that comes with being a part of NC State Athletics, and I’m excited to build on the strong foundation established by incredible leaders like Elliott Avent, Ray Tanner, and Sam Esposito.
“I would also like to personally thank Coach Avent for everything he has done for me, for this program, and for NC State. He has taught me so much throughout my career, and his support, mentorship, and encouragement have meant the world to me.
Known as one of the nation’s top assistant coaches and recruiting coordinators, Hart has spent the past 11 years as associate head coach. He has also served as the Wolfpack’s hitting coach and recruiting coordinator and has been involved in all facets of the program.
The 2021 Baseball America National Assistant Coach of the Year, Hart has helped mentor 32 draft picks since taking the role as recruiting coordinator in 2010. The Wolfpack’s recruiting classes ranked in the top five nationally three times under his direction: fourth by Baseball America in 2011 and 2012, and fifth by D1Baseball in 2024. The Pack also posted top 25 rankings in 2016, 2021, 2023, and 2025 (D1 Baseball and Baseball America).