Kenny Ray Carter (born 1 January 1959) is an American business owner, education activist, and former high school basketball coach.

Coming from a supportive family, Carter was raised strictly on academics, but he found a liking in sports.

[1] As a basketball coach, he maintained that his athletes must take their studies seriously, as good academic performance would give them access to college and other opportunities in life.

[2] While the community was outraged at first, public opinion eventually changed, and Carter was praised for his determined emphasis on prioritizing good values for his team.

Carter has a son named Damien – who played for his father at Richmond, and was portrayed by Robert Ri'chard in the movie – and currently resides in San Antonio, Texas.