This move signals UK's push for a proven leader, useful context for a colleague or fan tracking SEC athletics.
UK eyes J. Batt for AD role Story flow and key facts
The University of Kentucky is pursuing J. Batt, currently the Vice President and Director of Athletics at Michigan State, to replace retiring AD Mitch Barnhart. Batt has been in the role at Michigan State for just over a year, following a two-year tenure as VP and AD at Georgia Tech. During his time there, 14 of 17 varsity programs reached postseason competition, and the football team achieved consecutive bowl berths for the first time since 2013.
Before Georgia Tech, Batt held leadership roles at the University of Alabama (2017–2022) as executive deputy AD and at East Carolina University (2013–2017). His career reflects deep roots in the Southeastern Conference and a consistent focus on athletic performance and program development.
If hired, Batt would become Kentucky’s 11th athletic director. While no deal has been finalized, reports indicate UK is in a strong push to bring him back to the SEC. The search comes four months after Barnhart’s retirement announcement, marking a pivotal moment in UK’s athletic leadership future.
Facts
- University of Kentucky is targeting J. Batt of Michigan State to become its next athletic director.
- Batt has served as Michigan State's VP and Director of Athletics for just over a year.
- During his tenure at Georgia Tech (2022–2024), 14 of 17 varsity programs reached postseason competition.
- The Georgia Tech football team earned back-to-back bowl berths under Batt for the first time since 2013.
- Batt previously held leadership roles at Alabama (2017–2022) and East Carolina (2013–2017).
- If hired, Batt would become the 11th athletic director in UK history.
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