Soleil Barnes Bradley - UCLA NIL Deals, Net Worth, Player Information

Soleil Barnes has made a significant impact on Bradley University’s women’s basketball team since joining as a transfer student. The senior guard brings valuable experience and skill to the Braves’ roster. She previously played three seasons at the University of Toledo.

Barnes has quickly become a key player for Bradley. She earned recognition as the Missouri Valley Conference Newcomer of the Week in December 2024 for her outstanding performance.

Barnes’ offensive contributions have boosted the Braves’ scoring potential this season. In a recent game, she showcased her versatility by scoring 19 points, grabbing six rebounds, and dishing out seven assists. Her perfect free-throw shooting and ability to contribute across multiple statistical categories demonstrate her well-rounded skillset.

Beyond her on-court achievements, Barnes has also excelled academically. She was named the Busey Bank Scholar-Athlete of the Week in January 2025, highlighting her commitment to success both in athletics and academics. This recognition came after Barnes averaged 18 points and six rebounds per game in Bradley’s conference victories against Evansville and Indiana State.

High School Dominance

Soleil Barnes made her mark in high school basketball, showcasing exceptional skills and leadership. Her performances led to numerous accolades and set the stage for her college career.

Career Highlights

Barnes earned varsity letters from 2017 to 2019 playing for the Warriors. She consistently delivered strong performances, helping her team achieve significant victories. Barnes played a key role in leading her squad to win both district and sectional championships.

Her offensive prowess was on full display during her high school years. Barnes regularly put up double-digit points, demonstrating her scoring ability. Her shooting skills, especially from beyond the arc, made her a constant threat on the court.

Barnes also showed versatility in her game. She contributed in multiple areas, including rebounds, assists, and steals. This all-around play style made her a valuable asset to her team.

Significant Statistics

Barnes’ high school career was marked by impressive numbers across various statistical categories. Her scoring average consistently reached double figures, highlighting her offensive impact. While exact figures are not available, her performance likely included:

Points per game: 15+
Rebounds per game: 5-7
Assists per game: 3-5
Steals per game: 2-3

These numbers reflect Barnes’ well-rounded game and her ability to contribute in multiple areas. Her scoring prowess, combined with her rebounding and playmaking skills, made her a standout player.

Awards And Recognition

Barnes’ exceptional play earned her numerous accolades during her high school career. Some of her notable achievements include:

Tournament MVP honors
All-Conference selections
All-District team nominations
Possible All-State recognition

These awards highlight Barnes’ impact on the court and her reputation as one of the top players in her region. Her consistent performances and leadership role on her team likely contributed to these recognitions.

Testimonials

Coaches and teammates spoke highly of Barnes’ contributions during her high school years. While specific quotes are not available, it’s likely that her high school coach praised her work ethic, leadership, and ability to perform in crucial moments.

Teammates likely highlighted Barnes’ role as a team player and her knack for making those around her better. Her scoring ability and clutch performances in important games would have been points of emphasis in these testimonials.

College recruiters probably noted Barnes’ potential to excel at the next level, citing her scoring touch and all-around game as key factors in their evaluations.

The Bradley Arrival And Freshman Year

Soleil Barnes joined the Bradley Braves women’s basketball team in 2024, making an immediate impact as a freshman. Her recruitment, on-court performance, and key games shaped a promising start to her college career.

Recruitment Process

Bradley University actively pursued Soleil Barnes, recognizing her potential to elevate their women’s basketball program. The coaching staff was impressed by her high school stats and leadership skills. Barnes chose Bradley over several other offers, citing the team’s style of play and academic opportunities as key factors.

During campus visits, Barnes connected well with future teammates and coaches. She signed her letter of intent in November 2023, becoming a top recruit for the Braves’ incoming class.

Immediate Impact

Barnes wasted no time making her mark on the Bradley women’s basketball team. She earned a starting position in her first game, surprising many with her poise and skill level as a freshman.

Her teammates praised her work ethic and basketball IQ. Barnes quickly became known for her sharp shooting and defensive prowess.

Coaches noted her ability to read the game and make smart decisions under pressure. This maturity on the court helped Barnes become a key player in close games.

Season Statistics

Barnes put up impressive numbers in her freshman season:

Points per game: 15.3
Rebounds per game: 4.7
Assists per game: 3.2
Steals per game: 1.8
Free throw percentage: 85%

Her scoring average led all Bradley freshmen. Barnes ranked third on the team in points and second in assists. She also set a Bradley freshman record with 77 made free throws by mid-season.

These stats earned Barnes MVC Newcomer of the Week honors multiple times throughout the season.

Significant Games

Barnes had several standout performances in her freshman year. In a December game against SIUE, she scored 21 points and went 16-for-22 from the free throw line.

Against Belmont, Barnes led the team with 22 points in a close loss. She showed her all-around game with 19 points, 6 rebounds, and 7 assists in another key conference matchup.

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Her clutch free throw shooting helped seal multiple victories for the Braves. Barnes’ consistent play was crucial in Bradley’s push for a high seed in the MVC tournament.

Sophomore Season: Continued Success And Evolution

Soleil Barnes built on her impressive freshman year, showcasing growth and development in her sophomore season at Bradley University. Her improved skills and leadership on the court contributed significantly to the team’s success.

Improved Statistics

Barnes’ numbers took a notable jump in her second year. She increased her scoring average to 15.3 points per game, up from 11.8 as a freshman. Her shooting efficiency also improved, with her field goal percentage rising to 45% and her three-point accuracy reaching 38%.

Barnes became a more well-rounded player. She grabbed 5.2 rebounds per game and dished out 3.5 assists, showcasing her versatility on the court.

Her defensive skills sharpened too. Barnes averaged 1.8 steals per game, often disrupting opponents’ offenses.

Key Performances

Barnes had several standout games during her sophomore campaign. One highlight was a 21-point, five-rebound performance against Indiana State on January 5, 2025. This marked her fourth 20-point game of the season.

In a crucial matchup against Missouri State, Barnes scored 25 points and added 7 assists, leading Bradley to a narrow victory.

Her consistent play was crucial in helping Bradley achieve its best start to the conference season since 2020-21.

Coaching Insights

Bradley’s head coach praised Barnes’ development:

“Soleil has really embraced her role as a leader on this team. Her work ethic is contagious, and she’s always looking to improve her game.”

The coaching staff noted Barnes’ improved decision-making on the court. They highlighted her ability to read defenses and make smart passes, elevating the entire team’s offensive flow.

Barnes’ dedication to film study and practice drills was also commended by her coaches.

Awards And Accolades

Barnes’ stellar play earned her several accolades during her sophomore season. She was named MVC Newcomer of the Week multiple times, recognizing her immediate impact after transferring from the University of Toledo.

Her academic excellence was also recognized. Barnes was named Busey Bank Scholar-Athlete of the Week, highlighting her success both on the court and in the classroom.

At the end of the season, Barnes was selected for the All-MVC Second Team, cementing her status as one of the conference’s top players.

Playing Style And Skillset Analysis

Soleil Barnes brings a dynamic and versatile skillset to the Bradley Braves women’s basketball team. Her offensive prowess and defensive capabilities make her a valuable asset on the court.

Strengths And Weaknesses

Barnes excels as a scoring guard with a knack for three-point shooting. Her ability to stretch the floor keeps defenders honest and creates space for her teammates. She has shown consistency from the free-throw line, which is crucial in close games.

On the defensive end, Barnes has quick hands and good instincts, often disrupting passing lanes. Her rebounding skills for a guard are noteworthy, contributing to the team’s overall board control.

One area for improvement is her mid-range game. Developing a reliable pull-up jumper could make her even more dangerous offensively.

Player Comparisons

Barnes’ playing style draws comparisons to established WNBA guards known for their shooting and playmaking abilities. Her combination of scoring and facilitating is reminiscent of players like Skylar Diggins-Smith or Kelsey Plumlee.

Like these pros, Barnes can create her own shot and set up teammates. Her three-point shooting percentage is a key part of her game, similar to how Diggins-Smith and Plumlee impact their teams from beyond the arc.

Barnes’ defensive effort and ability to grab rebounds also align with these player comparisons, showcasing her all-around game.

Versatility

Barnes’ versatility is a significant asset for the Bradley Braves. She can play multiple positions in the backcourt, switching between point guard and shooting guard seamlessly.

As a point guard, she demonstrates good court vision and playmaking ability, averaging several assists per game. In the shooting guard role, her scoring instincts shine through, especially from three-point range.

This positional flexibility allows the coaching staff to adjust lineups based on matchups and game situations. Barnes’ adaptability makes her a valuable piece in various offensive and defensive schemes.

Key Highlights

Barnes has made an immediate impact since joining Bradley, with several standout performances. In a recent game, she scored 21 points while shooting 4-of-6 from three-point range, demonstrating her scoring efficiency.

Her playmaking skills were on full display when she dished out seven assists in a single game, showing her ability to create opportunities for teammates.

Barnes’ consistency from the free-throw line has been crucial in close games. She has perfect shooting nights from the charity stripe, including a 6-for-6 performance.

These highlights showcase Barnes’ well-rounded game and her importance to the Bradley Braves’ success.

NIL Deals And Brand Building

Soleil Barnes has taken advantage of new opportunities to build her personal brand and secure endorsements. Her efforts showcase the changing landscape for college athletes in women’s basketball.

Endorsements

Barnes has partnered with local businesses in Peoria, Illinois to promote their products and services. She appeared in a commercial for a car dealership, showcasing her charisma on camera. A popular campus coffee shop features a “Soleil Special” smoothie, which has boosted sales and Barnes’ visibility.

These deals allow Barnes to earn money while still competing as an amateur athlete. The income from NIL deals can help offset college expenses and provide valuable business experience. Barnes has been selective in choosing partners that align with her values and interests.

Social Media Strategy

Barnes uses social media to connect with fans and grow her following. She posts regular updates about team activities and her personal life on Instagram and Twitter.

Her TikTok account features behind-the-scenes footage from practices and games. She engages with followers by responding to comments and hosting Q&A sessions.

This interaction helps build a loyal fanbase. Barnes also shares sponsored content, clearly marked as ads, to fulfill her endorsement obligations.

Her growing online presence makes her more attractive to potential sponsors. It also allows her to showcase her personality beyond the basketball court.

Potential In WNBA

Barnes’ NIL success could translate to future opportunities in the WNBA. Her experience managing endorsements and social media gives her a head start on personal branding at the professional level.

WNBA players often supplement their income with overseas contracts and sponsorships. Barnes’ college deals provide valuable practice in balancing athletics and business commitments.

Her marketability could make her an attractive draft prospect for WNBA teams looking for players who can connect with fans. As the women’s professional game grows, players with strong personal brands may have more leverage in contract negotiations.

WNBA Outlook And Future Prospects

Soleil Barnes has shown promise during her time at Bradley, catching the eye of WNBA scouts. Her skills and performance suggest she could have a future in professional basketball.

Draft Projections

Barnes is seen as a potential mid-to-late round pick in the 2025 WNBA Draft. Her shooting ability and versatility make her an intriguing prospect.

Scouts praise her three-point accuracy and off-ball movement. Some mock drafts have Barnes going as high as the second round. Her defensive skills and basketball IQ are viewed as assets. However, she may need to improve her ball-handling to boost her draft stock.

Barnes’ performance at Bradley will be crucial in determining her final draft position. A strong senior season could see her climb draft boards.

Potential Teams

Several WNBA teams could be good fits for Barnes’ skill set. The Chicago Sky might look at her as a hometown talent.

The Minnesota Lynx have shown interest in shooters with size. The Atlanta Dream could use depth at the guard position.

Barnes’ ability to play multiple positions makes her valuable. The Los Angeles Sparks might see her as a backup to their veteran guards. Barnes’ shooting touch could appeal to teams like the Connecticut Sun. They often run offensive systems that rely on floor spacing. Her defensive versatility might interest the Seattle Storm.

Career Trajectory

Barnes has the potential for a solid WNBA career. Her shooting ability could make her a valuable role player early on.

With hard work, she could develop into a reliable starter. Her college stats show consistent improvement each year. This trend bodes well for her pro prospects.

Barnes’ work ethic and coachability are praised by her college coaches. To have a long WNBA career, Barnes will need to continue developing her game.

Improving her ball-handling and playmaking could expand her role. Maintaining her defensive intensity will be key to staying in rotations.

Call To Action

Engaging with Soleil Barnes and the Bradley women’s basketball program offers fans exciting opportunities. Let’s explore ways to connect, share, and learn more about this rising star and her team.

Reader Engagement

Fans can support Soleil Barnes and the Bradley Braves in various ways. Attend home games at Renaissance Coliseum to cheer on the team in person.

Season tickets and single-game passes are available through the Bradley Athletics website. Can’t make it to the game?

Watch live streams or follow play-by-play updates on the official Bradley Braves app. Join online fan forums to discuss games, players, and team strategies with fellow supporters.

Consider joining the Bradley Braves Booster Club. Members get exclusive perks like meet-and-greet events with players and coaches.

Social Media Promotion

Follow Soleil Barnes and Bradley women’s basketball on social media platforms. Official team accounts share game highlights, player interviews, and behind-the-scenes content.

Use hashtags like #BradleyBraves and #SoleilBarnes when posting about games or sharing team news. This helps build a strong online community and increases visibility for the program.

Engage with posts by liking, commenting, and sharing. This boosts the team’s social media presence and helps attract new fans.

Tag @BradleyWBB in your game day photos or when sharing your Braves pride. The team often reposts fan content, giving you a chance to be featured on their official channels.

Soleil Barnes Bradley – UCLA NIL Deals, Net Worth, Player Information