He'll be in the starting lineup against Nebraska.
Brown started four games early in the season until Barnes flagged him for excessive turnovers and inconsistent effort on defense.
But Brown has become more reliable on defense while reducing his turnovers, committing just 10 in nine Big 12 games. He made two while scoring a season-best 28 points against Kansas — 26 in the second half.
Now Barnes said Brown is ready to start, providing justification the coach often cites when a player receives a promotion.
"He has changed his work ethic and his approach in practice over the last three weeks," Barnes said.
He'll replace Mason.