Prospect Spotlight: Amiah Simmons (2021)

Israel Potoczny

October 15, 2019 @ 12:00 PM

Blue Valley Southwest 2021 guard Amiah Simmons is coming off a big summer with KC Hoops and is looking forward to a big junior season in 2019-20. A 5’8 guard, Simmons brings speed, a quick first step and the ability to push the pace to the floor. She can knock down the 3, create her own shot off the dribble and takes pride in her leadership. A year ago, she helped Blue Valley Southwest advance to the state championship where she was 7 for 8 at the free throw line. Simmons averaged 10 points and moved into a starting role halfway through her sophomore season, which was highlighted by a 30-point performance in the sub-state championship game. Simmons says running with KC Hoops this offseason has helped prepare her for the upcoming season as she competed in tournaments in Indianapolis and at the Hy-Vee Arena. “The competition level in summer ball gives me good experience and helps me prepare for school ball,” she said “It is definitely more competitive because everyone there is wanting, for the most part, to play in college.” Simmons spent the offseason competing in a ball handling challenge, which she also did when she was in elementary school. “I have done 30 minutes of ball handling for 106 days so far and I plan on continuing,” Simmons said. “I have worked on my step back and different ways to drive to the basket, as well as pull up jumpers on the elbow.” Simmons says her dad has had the biggest influence on her basketball career to date. “He has always been there for me and he pushes me to become my full potential,” Simmons said. “I am so grateful to have him. He has been my hardest coach out of all the coaches I’ve played for.” A fan of Baylor’s Chloe Jackson, Simmons says she has tried to take various elements of her game and make them her own. “She is athletic and can shoot well,” Simmon said. “I like her pull up jumper on the elbow and I want to really focus on that this season.”