Iowa is probably a better basketball state than most give it credit for, but only once in a generation does it produce a talent like Harrison Barnes. A native of Ames, Barnes was a McDonald’s All-American and the top-rated prospect on most recruiting services. He was right in Iowa State’s backyard, so it made sense for Iowa State to be a finalist for what would undoubtedly be the biggest recruit in school history.
Leading up to his decision, many believed that the talented shooting guard/small forward would end up with his hometown team, possibly joining his teammate Doug McDermott.