Rashaud Marshall Commits to Returning to Austin Peay Men's Basketball

Star forward details loyalty to program and coach Corey Gipson

Apr. 13, 2026 at 5:21pm

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A fractured, cubist-style painting depicting a basketball player in mid-jump shot, with the figure broken down into sharp, overlapping geometric shapes in a vibrant color palette, conceptually representing the multifaceted nature of the player's decision to remain loyal to his team.Rashaud Marshall's commitment to Austin Peay signals the program's stability and culture, as the Governors aim to take the next step toward the NCAA Tournament.Clarksville Today

Rashaud Marshall, a standout forward for the Austin Peay men's basketball team, has announced he will return for the 2026-27 season. Marshall, who averaged 16.3 points, 6.8 rebounds, and nearly one block per game last year, cited his strong bond with the coaching staff and desire to lead the Governors to the NCAA Tournament as key factors in his decision.

Why it matters

Marshall's return is a major boost for the Austin Peay program, which is looking to build on its success from last season and make its first NCAA Tournament appearance since 2016. In an era of frequent player movement, Marshall's loyalty to the Governors is noteworthy and speaks to the positive culture established by head coach Corey Gipson.

The details

Marshall, a 6-foot-8 forward, began his college career at Ole Miss before transferring to Arkansas State. He said the family-like atmosphere and straightforward coaching style of Gipson were instrumental in his decision to stay at Austin Peay. The Governors fell just short of the NCAA Tournament last season, and Marshall is determined to lead the team over that final hurdle in the upcoming campaign.

  • Marshall averaged 16.3 points, 6.8 rebounds, and nearly one block per game during the 2025-26 season.
  • After the Governors' season ended in the ASUN Tournament, Marshall immediately announced he would be returning for 2026-27.
  • Marshall's return was officially announced by the program last week, alongside fellow star Zyree Collins.

The players

Rashaud Marshall

A 6-foot-8 forward who has been a standout performer for the Austin Peay men's basketball team. He began his college career at Ole Miss before transferring to Arkansas State.

Corey Gipson

The head coach of the Austin Peay men's basketball team, who has earned praise for his leadership and ability to build a strong program culture.

Zyree Collins

Another key returning player for the Austin Peay men's basketball team, who will join Marshall in leading the Governors next season.

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What they’re saying

“It's just the bond that I have with the whole coaching staff, it's a family bond. I haven't had that in college basketball before.”

— Rashaud Marshall, Austin Peay Forward

“(Coach Gipson) wants you to give it all. In practice, we're going 100% every day. People don't realize how long we stay in the gym.”

— Rashaud Marshall, Austin Peay Forward

“Really, I'm just loyal to the Peay.”

— Rashaud Marshall, Austin Peay Forward

What’s next

The Governors will open their 2026-27 season on November 10th against Lipscomb University. With Marshall and Collins leading the way, Austin Peay will be aiming to win the ASUN Conference tournament and earn a spot in the NCAA Tournament for the first time since 2016.

The takeaway

Rashaud Marshall's decision to return to Austin Peay for his senior season is a testament to the strong program culture built by head coach Corey Gipson. In an era of frequent player movement, Marshall's loyalty to the Governors is a refreshing sign that mid-major programs can retain top talent by fostering a positive environment and giving players a clear path to success.