Two more Brownwood Lions inked to be college ball players Tuesday as James Crow signed with McMurry University in Abilene and Marqous Barnes signed with Western Texas College in Snyder.
Crow, pitcher and 1st baseman, for the Lions will continue his baseball career at McMurray. He plans to major in mathematics, and looks forward to teaching math and coaching one day.
Barnes, a forward for the Lions, will continue his basketball career at Western Texas College. He will study aviation and business management.
Both players have been involved in sports since they were very young.
Crow has been playing since he was about 4, starting out in T-ball then going on to Buzz Baseball in Waco, a select team when he was 12.
“My dad taught me to play and worked with me,” said Crow. “Anything sport there was, he helped me and my mom, she did a lot to support me too.”
Crow stated that he is excited to play on a collegiate level, but will miss the Brownwood High School program in general and of course his friends.
Head Baseball Coach Jeremy Smith stated that he is excited to see James play on the college level, being at McMurry he hopes to take in some games.
“James is a 3-year starter and pitched a lot of big games for us. His record is 17-2. As a young player, we asked a lot of him and he produced. It’s going to be hard to find someone to replace him on the mound & 1st base and his leadership abilities,” said Coach Smith. “He is very deserving to play college ball. It’s good to see good things happen to good guys.”
Barnes has been playing basketball since he was a small child. His mother recalled him starting out on a Tyco goal when he was about 8. His mom was red shirted at Lubbock Christian. Barnes credits her influence and skill in helping him as he put “fulfill the legacy of my family,” as most of them were basketball players.
“I’m excited for him and nervous at the same time, I know he will do well, he is a good kid,” stated his mother Kristi Barnes.
Head Basketball Coach Josh Alcorn stated that Barnes has worked hard for the past four years and that it will be hard to replace his size and skill.
“The hard work he put in this summer and fall to make his dream come true. He was named the Big Country Player of the Year, and that proves that hard work pays off,” said Coach Alcorn. “I’m excited as his coach to see him continue.”
James Crow is the son of David and Melissa Crow. Marqous Barnes is the son of Kristi Barnes.
Pictured above are Crow and Barnes signing. Below are more photos of the signing event.
Pictured above are (left to right): Crow’s parents,David Crow & Melissa Crow, James Crow, Coach Smith, Coach Alcorn, Marqous Barnes and his mother, Kristi Barnes.
Marqous Barnes signing.
James Crow signs.
Crow pictured with friends.
Barnes pictured with friends
James Crow with his Little Lions, (left to right) Luke, Levi and Lance Moss.
