Missouri State's Elijah Leonard mourns death of best friend MichaJo Barnett

SPRINGFIELD — Missouri State's Elijah Leonard and MicahJo Barnett have been friends since elementary school.

"That's my best friend," MSU's quarterback said. "I really got to know him in fourth grade, that's when we started playing together."

Barnett was the star running back for Division II's William Jewell in Liberty. Barnett scored a touchdown against Fort Lewis on Aug. 29.

Following the score, Barnett suffered a medical emergency on the sidelines. The Liberty native would tragically die.

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Leonard left Springfield and drove north to the hospital shortly after hearing the news.

"I was heartbroken," Leonard said. "They called and said that he passed away. I broke down in tears. I was sad. I hung out with his family, and it just hurt for days."

Leonard and Barnett played together from elementary school through high school. Leonard played at Liberty North before transferring for his final two seasons to Lee's Summit North.

Barnett led Liberty North to a Class 6 State Championship in 2023. He rushed for nearly 1,500 yards during his final season. Last year, Barnett also led William Jewell in rushing yards.

"A great football player," Leonard said, smiling. "He tote that rock. He was shifty, and then he could run you over, too. He's an all-around back."

Although Leonard and Barnett attended different colleges, video games kept them in touch. The pair would play together often. Video games kept the duo in touch and close to each other.

"He was a great person, and he was always having fun," Leonard said. "He would always be himself, and he was always energetic. He grinded for everything."

Last week, Liberty North and Liberty faced each other in a Week 2 high school football game. The entire city, north of Kansas City, supported Barnett's family as they paid tribute to a great person and great player.

In Springfield, every time Leonard puts on a Missouri State jersey, he'll be thinking about his best friend and the memories that they made together.

"I think about him every day," Leonard said. "I've got pictures of him all around. I think about him a lot. We loved being around him."

Liam Keating covers high school sports and Missouri State athletics for The Springfield News-Leader. Send stats or information to him at Lkeating@usatodayco.com