PINE BLUFF, AR. — The University of Arkansas at Pine Bluff head football coach Alonzo Hampton has announced the addition of Stephen Barnette as co-offensive coordinator and wide receivers coach, bringing a dynamic offensive perspective and a strong background in player development to the Golden Lions football program.

In his role at UAPB, Barnette will work alongside the offensive staff to co-coordinate the Golden Lions' offensive attack while leading the wide receivers unit. He will be responsible for developing explosive playmakers on the perimeter while contributing to game planning, pass-game design, and in-game adjustments.

"Stephen brings tremendous energy, knowledge, and experience to our staff," said Hampton. "He has coached at multiple levels and has a proven ability to develop talent and impact the passing game. We're excited about what he will bring to our program and our student-athletes."

Barnette arrives at UAPB following his most recent stint at the University of California, Berkeley, where he served as assistant wide receivers/running backs coach. During his time with the Golden Bears, he helped develop one of the nation's top receivers in Jacob De Jesus, an ACC receptions leader and First-Team All-ACC selection. Barnette also contributed to weekly game planning, pass-game schematics, and red zone strategy.

Prior to Cal, Barnette served as tight ends coach at North Carolina A&T State University (2024–25), where he handled opponent breakdowns and contributed to both run and pass game planning while also playing a key role in recruiting and player development.

He previously worked at Duke University (2023–24) as an offensive analyst and assistant wide receivers coach. While with the Blue Devils, Barnette helped develop All-ACC wide receiver Jordan Moore, who recorded 59 receptions for 794 yards and eight touchdowns.

From 2022–23, Barnette served as wide receivers coach at the University of New Hampshire, helping guide the Wildcats to a Coastal Athletic Association (CAA) championship. His unit produced the conference's freshman receiving touchdown leader and played a key role in the team's offensive success.

Barnette also spent two seasons at Towson University (2020–22) as assistant wide receivers and tight ends coach, where he helped develop All-CAA performer Caleb Smith.

He began his coaching career at Fork Union Military Academy (2015–20), serving as passing game coordinator and helping lead the program to an undefeated season while developing multiple Division I athletes.

A former standout wide receiver, Barnette was a five-year letterwinner and three-year starter at the University of Richmond. A two-time All-CAA selection, he finished his career with 197 receptions for 2,844 yards and 17 touchdowns. In 2013, he led the conference in receptions and receiving yards, setting a single-season program record.

Barnette earned his bachelor's degree in sociology from the University of Richmond in 2014.