Ben Barnes, a 5'11" guard from Memphis, Tennessee has committed to play men's basketball for the Mustangs this coming school year. Barnes, pictured with his mother, is a graduate of Gateway Christian School, where he led them to the NHBC championship in 2011. He was also selected as the NHBC Tournament MVP that year and a NHBC 2nd Team All-American. On the academic side, Barnes was a honor roll student throughout his high school career.
According to Men's Head Basketball Coach, Dave Gonyea, "We learned of Ben's availability from former CMCC Dean of Students, Randall Lee. Dean Lee is back in his home state of Mississippi and referred Ben to us. We do owe Dean Lee for this one! It was apparent early on during Ben's visit that he would be a good fit for our program. He jelled with our guys on and off the court. He moved seamlessly on the court; quick, agile and employs a high basketball IQ. He has found the weight room which impacts his play. He is a respectful young man who has a passion for basketball. Throughout workouts he was very attentive and coachable. Ben comes from a strong Christian background raised by two wonderful, supportive parents. We are very pleased Ben has selected CM to further his career."
According to Barnes, "The reason I chose CMCC is because of the kind and encouraging staff and Coach Gonyea. He showed me around the facilities and took me on a tour of the area. He was involved with all his players and their wellbeing. I got to play pick-up games with the players and they all loved it. So, I decided to make this my new home for a while."