Forward Barnes Commits to UCLA

Forward Matt Barnes, one of UCLA’s top recruiting prospects and one of the elite forwards in this year’s senior class, said Friday that he had orally committed to play basketball at UCLA, becoming the first Bruin of the crucial Class of 2002.

The 6-foot-7 Barnes, from Del Campo Fair Oaks near Sacramento, has a game some compare to current Bruin senior J.R. Henderson.

Barnes said he will officially commit during the November signing period and that he is academically eligible.

He said that he was drawn to UCLA for two reasons: He has always followed the Bruins and the prospect of four starting jobs coming open next year.

“[Coach Steve Lavin] is looking for starters next year,” said Barnes, who added that he anticipates UCLA also landing Compton Dominguez forward Tayshaun Prince and possibly swingman JaRon Rush of Pembroke Hill (Mo.).

“It’s going to be a real young team, with [current freshman point guard] Baron Davis, and I think we can really do some damage when we get in there. They’ll be really good this year, then the year I come in is a rebuilding year. We’ll be starting all over, and it’s up to us.”