Prior to E&H, Kestner spent four years as an assistant coach at the University of Virginia's College at Wise where she serves as the women’s basketball program’s top assistant and recruiting coordinator. Previously she spent two seasons as a graduate assistant at Lincoln Memorial University.

A native of Blountville, Tennessee, Kestner was a four-year letter winner at Sullivan Central High School where she earned All-Big 8 Conference honors in all four of her prep seasons.

Following her high school career, she played collegiately at Concord University. With the Mountain Lions, Kestner was a three-year starter as she compiled 853 points, 649 rebounds, 136 steals and 26 blocks. As a senior, she earned All-MEC Second-Team acclaim after leading Concord with 12.7 points and 8.8 rebounds per game. She finished her career eighth in Concord history in rebounding and ninth in steals.

At the conclusion of her playing career, Kestner served as an assistant at the University of Pittsburgh Johnstown. With the Mountain Cats, she assisted in planning and organizing team travel while overseeing strength and conditioning workouts. Additionally, the coach assisted in recruiting efforts along with perimeter and post player skill workouts.