Adia Barnes, the head coach of the Arizona Women’s Basketball team for nine seasons, is leaving to take on the same role at SMU. During her time at Arizona, Barnes led the team to six straight postseason appearances, including a WNIT win in 2019 and a National Championship game appearance in 2021. However, in recent years, the team struggled to replicate that success, missing the NCAA Tournament in the 2024-25 season. Despite roster retention issues, Barnes managed to increase attendance significantly. She will be replacing Toyelle Wilson at SMU, who was fired after the team’s 10-20 season. The hiring has been welcomed by SMU’s Athletic Director Damon Evans, who believes Barnes will bring success to the program. Arizona will now begin a national search for a new head coach, with potential candidates like Lindy La Rocque from UNLV being considered. With Barnes’ departure, all four Division I schools in Arizona will have new head coaches for the upcoming season.
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