Simmons Makes A Decision

Keith Simmons, a wiry 6-4, 180-pound combo guard/swingman from Kingston High School in Kingston, New York, has verbally committed to Holy Cross, according to Erik Jaklitsch, one of his coaches with The New York Elite AAU program.

Simmons committed last Thursday after taking official visits to Holy Cross and William and Mary. Simmons chose Ralph Willard's program over Rider and Towson as well, both of whom were vying for official visits before Keith made his decision. Previously higher level programs like Penn State and Boston College had sniffed around a bit. Penn had checked him out, and a slew of mid-major programs in the Northeast had expresssed serious interest.

Simmons is a lanky wing who will bring much versatility to the Patriot League program. Keith is a capable slasher off the wing, hits the mid to long range jumper with pretty good consistency, and handles well for his size. Simmons manned anywhere from the 1 to 3 slots adequately this summer with The NY Elite, running the point many a time. He runs the point for his high school team. It will be interesting to see how Willard and his staff use him.

Simmons played an integral role in The New York Elite's success this summer. He derailed a loaded Tim Thomas Playaz Team in the semifinals with a buzzer-beating leaner at The Three Stripes Tourney at Hofstra, and also competed at The Las Vegas Big Time Tournament and Best of Summer with Erik Jaklitsch and Chris Phillips' crew.

Simmons and New York City import Kevin Hamilton, a freshman at Holy Cross, give the program a pair of big guards who will provide a nice complement to a mountainous Crusader front line that includes 7'6'' North Carolina transfer Neil Fingleton.

Keith is a solid student, carrying an 88 average. He had previously scored 990 on the SAT, and recently took the test again.