The University of Arkansas at Pine Bluff Head Football Coach Alonzo Hampton has announced the addition of Kavian Gaither as a Graduate Assistant with the Golden Lions football program.
A native of Waco, Texas, Gaither comes to UAPB after a decorated playing career at Sam Houston State University, where he graduated with a Bachelor of Business Administration in Entrepreneurship.
Gaither played four seasons (2021–2024) under legendary head coach K.C. Keeler (271 career wins, 2nd winningest active college coach and 21st all-time), leaving his mark as one of the top defensive playmakers in Bearkat history.
As a true freshman in 2021, he appeared in 12 games during an 11-1 season. In 2022, he broke out with 79 tackles, 12 tackles for loss, 3 sacks, 2 forced fumbles, and an interception, earning WAC Defensive Player of the Year, WAC First Team, and Buck Buchanan Award Finalist honors.
In 2023, Gaither started all 10 games, highlighted by a Conference USA Player of the Week performance vs. Louisiana Tech with 12 tackles, a forced fumble, and an interception returned for a touchdown. He finished the season with 72 tackles, 5 TFLs, 2 forced fumbles, and an interception.
In 2024, Gaither cemented his place as a leader, serving as Team Captain, earning 1st Team All-Conference USA, and being named to the Conference USA All-Academic Team. He started all 13 games, helping Sam Houston to its first bowl game and win in program history, recording 92 tackles, 7.5 TFLs, 2 interceptions, and 2 fumble recoveries.
He finished his career 13th all-time in tackles (262), 11th in single-game tackles (17), and 9th in solo tackles for a season (63) in Sam Houston history.
“We’re excited to welcome Kavian to our coaching staff,” said Coach Hampton. “His leadership, playing experience at the highest level, and championship mentality will have an immediate impact on our program.”
