Photo Credit: Sensei Hoops

Each and every time Phenom Hoop Report gets to report or sees a commitment from a player we have seen over the years, it is always a fantastic day.  It is great to see players achieve their goal to play at the next level and it is such a great accomplishment for that player.

Here is the latest commitment.

Player: Timothy Barnes
Class: 2021
Committed to: UMKC

What the Player Said:

PHR: What made UMKC the place for you in the end'

Barnes: Despite how far it is, the entire coaching staff showed their interest in me and they text or called every day since they offered me just to check on me.  Every basketball player's dream is Division I basketball and I was blessed to come across an athletic and academic opportunity that I felt was best for me and my family.

PHR: What do you think you can bring to the program with your style of play'

Barnes: Defense, lots and lots of defense and a lot of intensity.

PHR: How did you inform the staff there and what did they have to say'

Barnes: I texted the coaches and they called me back instantly and it was hard to tell who was more excited me or them but they were just really excited and really happy I chose UMKC. Coach Donlon’s words were, 'Really excited Tim, really glad you chose UMKC when you could've waited and I'm almost certain you would've gotten more Division I offers.'

PHR: What will you be focusing on now with your decision behind you'

Barnes: Getting better, staying on top of my grades and preparing my body for the next level.

What Was Said by Phenom Hoops:

'Barnes put on a show at the Savage Academy.  From the first game to the last, he was catching everyone's eyes and getting people out of their seats.  If you haven't seen his game yet, you certainly will want to as he is an explosive, get out of your seats, type of prospect.  He looks to put opponents on a poster and does so impressively with power and athleticism.  But he also showed that he can score on other levels, knocking down jumpers with his mid-range shot and from three.' Savage Academy in 2020

'If you haven't seen the videos yet, you should. This is a young man that brings tremendous athleticism to the table but also can defend and score.  Love the power and two-way ability he brings.' – Patrick O'Brien

'I feel like I am a dog on the court. I like to be the guy on the court when my team needs a bucket, they look for me. I love defense, the game doesn't start until I'm on defense, I believe I can get to the cup at will, I like to guard the best player on the opposite team and I love winning as a team. The main thing I am hoping to work on is my long ball, getting my 3-point shot more consistent.' – Barnes on his game