Women's Basketball Inks Ariel Barnes

MACON, Ga. – The Mercer women’s basketball team recently announced the addition of Ariel Barnes in a statement made by head coach Janell Jones Tuesday. A native of Henderson, Ky., Barnes comes to Mercer after a highly decorated career at Henderson County High School.

While playing for the Lady Colonels, Barnes racked up a series of impressive statistics, including an average of 18.8 points per game, 149 career assists (5.0 apg) and 68 career steals. By the end of her four-year career in Maroon and White, Barnes ranked 7th in career assists (297), 12th in career steals (159) and had broken the 1,000 point barrier.

Barnes is yet another addition to the Jones’ 2010 recruiting class that enters Mercer with a winning pedigree. In her first year of high school basketball, Barnes’ squad reached the sweet 16 of the state tournament. Over her final three years at Henderson County, Barnes’ teams posted a 76-15 record, advancing to two elite eight’s and a final four in the state tournament.

At just 5-6, Barnes made her presence felt in postseason play. As a Lady Colonel, Barnes was twice named MVP of a state tournament game and garnered a pair state all-tournament team selections. Barnes was also named ESPN Tri State Player of the Week twice during her stint at Henderson County.

Off the court, Barnes carried a 3.5 GPA while being honored as the school’s Student of the Month in her sophomore, junior and senior years. Barnes also boasts Citizenship Awards for each year in high school and was a member of the Cotillion Club.

At Mercer, Barnes aims to excel as a student-athlete while continuing to develop her ability to work well with children.