Nansemond River High School senior Cassidy Simmons has signed to play college basketball at Virginia State University.

The Lady Warriors’ basketball team had a successful season this year, taking the PenSouth regular season championship and getting a berth at regionals, where their season ended.

As a senior and a leader, Simmons had a lot to do with the team’s success.

The senior had to be patient throughout the recruiting process, but her patience paid off.

“I wasn’t trying to be picky, but I knew what level I could play on,” Simmons said. “So I had expectations for myself in where I wanted to play.”

VSU is an NCAA Division-II school, playing in the CIAA Conference. The Lady Trojans were 22-8 this year. When Simmons visited the campus, she knew she’d love it, as she found everything she was looking for in a college.

“The coaching staff was so welcoming, and everyone there was so willing to help,” she said. “It’s just a great environment, and I’m excited to start a new part in my life.”

Her family played a big role in helping her decide. Throughout the years, they have encouraged her and pushed. She said she would not be who she is today if not for her family. She also set goals for herself this year that she worked hard to accomplish.

The senior was a first-team All PenSouth player. She averaged 10-15 points per game. At VSU, she plans to bring more intensity on the defensive end.

“They are a team that likes to run and press, and I think I do well in that type of style,” Simmons said.

Simmons plans to major in psychology.