Adia Barnes Departs Arizona for SMU Head Coaching Position

Adia Barnes, the head coach of the University of Arizona's women's basketball team, has announced her departure to take up a new role as head coach at Southern Methodist University (SMU). The move was confirmed by Arizona's Vice President and Director of Athletics, Desiree Reed-Francois, who expressed gratitude for Barnes' contributions to the Wildcats.

Barnes, an alumna of Arizona, led the team to significant success, including a national championship appearance in 2021. Her decision to leave her alma mater for SMU marks a significant shift in her coaching career. Reed-Francois has already begun the search for a new head coach, reportedly reaching out to potential candidates to fill the vacancy.

The transition comes at a time when the Arizona women's basketball program is looking to build on its recent achievements. Barnes' departure is a notable event in college basketball, as she leaves behind a legacy of success and development at Arizona.

• Adia Barnes
• Arizona
• Desiree Reed-Francois
• SMU

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Is Adia Barnes leaving Arizona?

DALLAS -- Adia Barnes was named SMU's new women's basketball coach Saturday after nine seasons at Arizona, where she led the Wildcats to the national championship game four years ago. Barnes takes over an SMU program that is coming off a 10-20 record in its first season in the Atlantic Coast Conference.

Where is Adia Barnes going?

DALLAS — Adia Barnes was named SMU's new women's basketball coach Saturday after nine seasons at Arizona, where she led the Wildcats to the national championship game four years ago. Barnes takes over an SMU program that is coming off a 10-20 record in its first season in the Atlantic Coast Conference.

Where is Adia Barnes from?

A native of San Diego, Calif., Barnes is married to Salvo Coppa, an accomplished basketball coach in his own right and is also the mother of one son, Matteo and one daughter, Capri.