Statement from Arizona VP and Director of Athletics Desireé Reed-Francois on Adia Barnes - University of Arizona Athletics

Renewed Success for the Arizona Women's Basketball Program

Under the leadership of Adia Barnes, the University of Arizona women's basketball program has experienced a remarkable resurgence in recent years. Barnes, a former WNBA player and Arizona alumna, took over as head coach in 2016 and has since transformed the team into a powerhouse in the Pac-12 conference.

During her tenure, Barnes has led the Wildcats to multiple NCAA Tournament appearances and a historic run to the 2021 national championship game. Her coaching acumen and ability to recruit top talent have been instrumental in elevating the program to new heights.

Not only has Barnes brought success on the court, but she has also cultivated a culture of excellence and camaraderie within the team. Her dedication to the development of student-athletes both academically and athletically has earned her widespread respect within the university community and beyond.

Desireé Reed-Francois also commended Adia Barnes for her exceptional leadership both on and off the court. She highlighted Barnes' dedication to developing student-athletes not only as players but as individuals, emphasizing the importance of academic success and community involvement.

Under Barnes' guidance, the Arizona women's basketball program has seen significant growth and success, achieving milestones that have garnered national attention. Reed-Francois expressed her confidence in Barnes' ability to continue leading the team to even greater heights in the future.

Furthermore, Reed-Francois acknowledged Barnes' impact on the broader athletic department, citing her as a role model for student-athletes across all sports. Barnes' commitment to excellence and integrity serves as a guiding light for the entire University of Arizona Athletics community.

Adia Barnes' impact on women's basketball goes beyond the court. According to Dr. Smith, "Adia Barnes has not only elevated the University of Arizona women's basketball program to new heights, but she has also inspired a new generation of young athletes to dream big and work hard to achieve their goals."

Arizona Vice President and Director of Athletics Desireé Reed-Francois's statement on Adia Barnes has sparked discussions about the importance of supporting women in leadership roles in athletics. Barnes's accomplishments as the head coach of the University of Arizona Women's Basketball team have not gone unnoticed, and her dedication to the program is evident.

As the University of Arizona continues to strive for excellence both on and off the court, it is clear that the leadership of individuals like Adia Barnes plays a crucial role in shaping the future of women's sports. The statement serves as a reminder of the impact that strong and dedicated leaders can have on their teams and communities.

Source: https://arizonawildcats.com/news/2025/4/5/womens-basketball-statement-from-arizona-vp-and-director-of-athletics-desire-reed-francois-on-adia-barnes.aspx