COLORADO SPRINGS, Colo. – University of Colorado Colorado Springs men's basketball alumni Jonathan Barnes (Parker, Colo.) and Treshawn Wilford (Denver, Colo.) have recently made the next jump in their basketball careers as they sign professional contracts to play in the National Basketball League (NBL), a basketball league in England, for the 2018-19 season.

"I am extremely proud of Tre and JB for their respective academic and basketball careers at UCCS," said UCCS head men's basketball coach Jeff Culver. "Their hard work and dedication has set them up for this unique opportunity to continue their playing careers."

Barnes signed with the Manchester Magic earlier this month and is beyond excited for this opportunity to play at the next level:

"Honestly I just feel very honored and blessed to have a chance to continue to play the game I love. I'm excited to play in a city that has a rich sports culture and I can't wait to be a part of it. I'm grateful for my time at UCCS, and I know it's prepared me for my future. It's an exciting adventure ahead and I'm looking forward to getting back out on the court."

During his senior season at UCCS, Barnes made 18 starts in 29 games and averaged 17.2 minutes per game, 6.8 points per game, and 4.6 rebounds per game. Off the court, Barnes graduated with a bachelor's degree in Communications this past year, while also being named to the National Association of Basketball Coaches (NABC) Honors Court.

Wilford also signed earlier this month and will be playing for the Derby Trailblazers. Above all else, Wilford is ecstatic to graduate and start his professional career:

"After completing my Bachelor's Degree in May, I am excited to get my professional career going!"

In his four year career at UCCS, Wilford finished second in program records with 137 steals and sixth with 225 assists and 493 rebounds, while topping off his senior season with All-RMAC Second Team honors. Wilford would go on to graduate in May of 2018 with a bachelor's degree in History.

The NBL 2018-19 season will kick off Saturday, Oct 6^th over in the United Kingdom.