Michigan coach Kim Barnes Arico wears jersey on Sweet 16 sidelines to honor late brother
When the Wolverines last made the Sweet 16 in 2022, Barnes Arico debuted her jersey. All the coaches wore them on March 28.
FORT WORTH, Texas — Head coach Kim Barnes Arico wore a Wolverines softball jersey during No. 2-seeded Michigan women’s basketball 's 71-52 Sweet 16 victory over No. 3 Louisville on March 28.
On the back of the jersey was the number 11. The number is a tribute to her late brother. When the Wolverines last made the Sweet 16 in 2022, Barnes Arico debuted her jersey.
Michigan director of basketball operations Amy Mulligan later suggested that every staffer wear a jersey, too. With Michigan playing in the Sweet 16 for the first time in four years, the jerseys made a comeback. Each staff member wore one in as a show of support the team's head coach.
“[My dad] and my brother are just with me every step of the way,” Barnes Arico said, teary eyed. “I talk to them every time the national anthem comes on. They would be proud and they’re watching — probably together.