Barnes signs with North Alabama

FULTON, MS – Itawamba Community College's Kaleb Barnes has signed a National Letter of Intent to continue his baseball career at the University of North Alabama.

"I'm really excited about continuing my career at good program," said Barnes. "I couldn't ever envision myself going to school without playing baseball, so I'm glad UNA has given me the ability to do that."

The Pontotoc native has been a staple in the Indians lineup the past two season as he has played in the outfield, at third base and thrown some good innings form the hill.

"UNA is getting a good one in Kaleb," said ICC Head Coach Rick Collier. "He's done a great job for us and become a great overall player, and UNA is getting an every better person than they are player."

So far this season, Barnes is hitting .282 and has picked up 16 RBI and hit five doubles and a pair of home runs. On the mound, the sophomore right hander has made 12 appearances, throwing 26 and two thirds innings and has a 1-0 record.

VIDEO: Barnes talks about signing with UNA

"When I went for a visit I liked the campus and the baseball program," Said Barnes. "I knew it was a good decision for me to make, and it's not too far away from home either."

Another reason the Lions stood out to Barnes was his connection with UNA assistant coach and fellow Pontotoc native Nick McGregor who played basketball and baseball with his brother, but hit last two years in red and blue is not something Barnes will soon forget.

"I have loved it here at ICC," Said Barnes. "I've made great friends here, my teammates have become my brothers and the coaches have been great to me, so I love everything about ICC.

While excited for the next chapter of his career, Barnes isn't done at ICC as he and his fellow Indians are fighting for a playoff spot with two regular season doubleheaders remaining.

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