Harrison Barnes chooses North Carolina

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Harrison Barnes, the nation’s top-rated basketball recruit, just announced he would attend North Carolina.

The 6-foot-7 swingman from Ames (Iowa) High also considered UCLA, Duke, Kansas, Oklahoma and Iowa State.

Barnes announced his choice at a pep rally at his school, after thanking his family, coaches, friends, the college programs that recruited him, and even the national media, whom he said ‘made this day possible.’

Barnes averaged 19.7 points and 8.8 rebounds last season and made 43% of his three-point shots.

Of UCLA, Barnes said, ‘They have an unbelievable market for players, as well as one of the richest traditions in college basketball. Coach Howland’s pursuit of excellence is only matched by Coach Wooden.’

-- Mike Hiserman