By Eric Trent
Though they will no longer be catching no-look passes from Cierra Moss, five Peninsula College women’s basketball players – including Moss – are playing at universities next season.
Amanda Hutchins; Cierra Moss; Cherish Moss; Zhara Laster; and Imani Smith have all signed letters of intent.
After capturing the first ever Northwest Athletic Championship – and winning 48 games over the past two seasons – this is the most successful class of sophomores.
“It is a huge testament to these players and their commitment to their craft,” Head Coach Ali Crumb said.
“They have worked so hard these past two years and deserve to be collegiate basketball players for two more years.
“I couldn’t be more proud of them for their achievements, but mostly because of the type of people they are. These are high character kids and we are going to miss them a lot.”
Smith signed with San Francisco State University, a team that finished 7-13 last season.
“I’ve been working so hard for this,” Smith said. “Playing at Peninsula College helped me get to the next level.
“I’m looking forward to playing at San Fran and being a gator.
“I’ve gotten the opportunity to get to know my new teammates. I think it’s going to be a lot of fun.”
Laster signed with the University of Alaska Anchorage, a runner-up for the Division II national title. Laster was named the 2016 North Region Defensive Player of the Year.
Zhara is a special athlete,” Ryan McCarthy said, University of Alaska Anchorage’s head coach.
“She can play multiple positions and is very well rounded in her skill set.
“I believe she has a whole new level in her game and I am looking forward to developing that over the next two years.”
Twin sisters Cierra and Cherish Moss both signed with Haskell Indian Nations University as part of a package deal. Haskell won the 2016 A.I.I tournament championship.
Hutchins signed with Central Methodist University in Fayette, Mo., a team that finished the season ranked #19 in the nation at the NAIA Division 1 level.