The legacy of Brian Barnes
Dec 17, 2025|Basketball
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On Friday, December 12th, we gathered to honor the life and legacy of Mr. Brian Barnes, Benedictine Class of 2011. Brian passed away on May 1, 2021, at the young age of 27 due to a brain aneurysm. He remains a cherished member of the Benedictine Basketball Community, having served faithfully as our team’s basketball manager throughout all four years of his time here.
After graduating from Benedictine, Brian earned a scholarship to Central Michigan University, where he continued his passion for the game as a Student Manager. During his time there, he helped lead the Chippewas to a MAC Western Conference Championship in 2015. Upon graduation, Brian accepted a position as Video Coordinator at Kent State University, where he ultimately worked his way up to Director of Basketball Operations. He was a valued member of the staff who captured the MAC Championship in 2017.
Brian’s journey was defined not by the spotlight but by his unwavering commitment to serving others and elevating every program he was a part of. He approached his role with humility, professionalism, and a genuine love for the game, leaving a lasting impact on coaches, players, and teammates alike. Though his life was far too short, Brian’s legacy lives on in the championships he helped build, the relationships he formed, and the countless lives he touched. We remember Brian Barnes not only for what he accomplished, but for who he was — a loyal teammate, a devoted servant of the game, and forever a member of the Benedictine family. His impact will continue to be felt, and his memory will always be part of who we are.