Simmons staying in the south

While on his drive to College of Charleston, Georgia forward Jeremy Simmons had a good inclination about what his future may hold.

A few days after hanging out with Bobby Cremins and his staff, the 6-foot-7 big man from Tucker (Ga.) High School decided he was ready to join the College of Charleston next season.

"I got to thinking that I like this school and they are one of my top choices and I thought if I really like them, then I would pick them," Simmons said. "I liked them a lot and really enjoyed the city and the school and the team. Plus, not many guys get a chance to play for a coach like coach Cremins. I had a good feeling about it and thought it would be the right place for me."

Simmons was a hot target for Ball State, Tulane and Providence but opted for the opportunity to play right away and for a program close to home. Simmons said he felt like the College of Charleston made him a priority during the high school season.

"Coach Cremins told me that I was their number one guy and he made me feel like that," Simmons said. "It seemed like every time I looked up, they were at one of my games in the stands. That helped me make an easier decision."

The three-star forward won the 4A state championship as a senior and even played against one of his future teammates, Andrew Goudelock in region play.

"It's going to be nice playing with someone I know already," Simmons said. "That will make it easier in a lot of ways."