April 13, 2000

Camden, N.J., forward Arthur Barclay became University of Memphis coach John Calipari's first signee Wednesday, inking with the Tigers on the first day of the national signing period.

"We are so excited to get a player in the late signing period the caliber of Arthur Barclay," Calipari said. "He is a tremendous player and will be an asset to the university and the community."

Barclay, a 6-8 forward helped lead Camden to the New Jersey Tournament of Champions title last month. He averaged 24 points, 17.8 rebounds and four blocks per game as a senior and was named to the Associated Press All-State team. He was named New Jersey Hoops' top senior player in New Jersey as selected by a panel of state sports writers.

Barclay was also a unanimous selection for the All-South Jersey team as selected by Gannett News Service as a senior and was a two-time all-South Jersey selection of the Philadelphia Inquirer.

During his career, Barclay scored 1259 career points.

In this year's state Group 3 championship game, Barclay scored 28 points and had eight rebounds in a 93-68 win over North Jersey Sectional II champion Shabazz. His best outing during the playoffs was a 38-point effort against Willingboro when he pulled down a career-high 26 rebounds.

Camden went on to defeat top-ranked Seton Hall Prep 50-46 for the New Jersey Tournament of Champions title. The Panthers posted a 28-5 record, finishing the season with a nine-game winning streak and posting wins in 26 of their last 27 games.

Barclay is the third high school senior to sign with the U of M this year joining Memphis Raleigh-Egypt teammates Scooter McFadgon and Lou Wright who inked with the Tigers during the early signing period last November.