Adia Barnes officially introduced as SMU women’s basketball coach

“Think big. Be bold.” That’s the message echoing through Moody Coliseum as Adia Barnes, one of college basketball’s most respected figures, was officially introduced as SMU’s new women’s head coach. For Mustang fans, this wasn’t just another hire — it was a declaration. SMU is ready to compete on the national stage, and Barnes is the spark.

Barnes arrives with a track record few can match. In nine seasons at Arizona, she compiled a 169-114 record, led the Wildcats to five straight 20-win seasons, and guided them to the national title game in 2021. That run, which ended in a narrow loss to Stanford, turned Arizona into a national powerhouse and Barnes into one of the most respected minds in women’s hoops. “When you have a good group behind you, you can do a lot of amazing things,” Barnes said. “We’re going to do some amazing things here.”

This hire didn’t happen in a vacuum. SMU is investing heavily in athletics — from joining the ACC to landing big names like men’s coach Andy Enfield and AD Damon Evans. Evans called Barnes “ACC ready” and emphasized the university’s commitment: “Our commitment to women’s basketball will be unparalleled.” SMU hasn’t reached the NCAA Tournament since 2008 and went winless in ACC play last season. The message is clear: That’s about to change.

Barnes wasted no time. She’s already brought in eight new players — including top local recruit Jazzy Gipson — and her entire Arizona staff. Known for growing community support, Barnes averaged nearly 9,000 fans per game at Arizona. She sees the Metroplex as fertile ground: “It’s a gold mine. There’s nothing here that it doesn’t have.”

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With Barnes at the helm and momentum building across campus, SMU fans should buckle up. The Mustangs aren’t just aiming to compete — they’re building a powerhouse. As Barnes put it, “The sky’s the limit.” And this time, SMU’s shooting for the stars.