Notre Dame Prep Product Gets Release
Jake Barnett, who spent the 2008-2009 season at Notre Dame Prep as a post-graduate, has asked for and received his release from the University of Toledo less than two weeks after second year head coach Gene Cross unexpectedly resigned.
Barnett generated recruitment primarily from low major schools throughout his post-graduate season at Notre Dame Prep until later in the year when mid-major schools like Toledo came calling.
The Wisconsin native defied all expectations at Toledo this season, being named a team captain and leading the team in scoring and minutes played in just his freshman season.
Barnett was also named to this year’s All Mid-American Conference freshman team.
Barnett’s 12.9 points per game were the second most scored by a freshman in Toledo history. Additionally, he also led the team in three-point field goal percentage (37%), three-point field goals per game (2.22), and free-throw percentage (80.2%).
"I love the University of Toledo," Barnett said in a university-issued statement. "I have enjoyed my time here thus far, and I am certain that I will continue to have a positive experience if I choose to stay. I feel, given this time of transition for our basketball program, that it is important that I protect my future by seeking a release and exploring all available options.”
"However, I want to be clear that I have not made any definitive decision about my future at this time and may very well choose to stay here at UT if it is the best fit for myself, my teammates and our new coaching staff."
Jake Barnett