The WTAMU Women’s Basketball program heads to new heights this season with a 26-3 record and a #6 ranking in the USA Today/ESPN Division II Coaches Poll. Leading the Lady Buffs on the court is sophomore forward Jamie Simmons.

Growing up with five siblings, Kinberly, Tyeshia, Christopher, George and Brittany, Simmons’ love for basketball developed at an early age.

“I started playing when I was about nine years old because I was a tom-boy. I also had two brothers, so they taught me how to play,” Simmons said. “Basketball is my peacemaker. Growing up as a child, it’s what I did to get out of the house. It was my passion, and I loved it. It helped ease my mind.”

Simmons’ skill level became apparent at the high school level. As a senior, Simmons was named State Most Valuable Player. She was the first player in Texas to receive the honor without her team making it to the state competition. Simmons was also named Great Houston Player of the Year.

Before signing with WT, Simmons played forward for Trinity Valley Community College in Athens, Texas.

“I was in the Panhandle before I signed with WT,” Simmons said. “I had a meeting with Coach Gerlich and Coach Baker. They introduced me to a lot of the boosters here, and they were so friendly. I had offers to go other places, but I found this environment so friendly. It is totally different where I come from. I fell in love with this place.”

Simmons now leads the team in scoring with 427 points tallied for the season. With a scoring average of 14.7 and a field goal percent of .542, she tops the charts for the Lady Buffs.

“My best ability on the court is the way I can maneuver around the defense,” said Simmons.

As well as offense, Simmons provides a defensive force for the Lady Buffs, leading the team with 154 defensive rebounds. She is the category leader in rebounds with a total of 220. But, life for Simmons doesn’t just reside on the basketball court.

“When I’m not on the court, I’m usually on Facebook,” Simmons said. “I go with a couple of other girls from the team and eat out once a week. I’m always out eating.”

Simmons is also the mother of two-year-old daughter, Royaltee. She is a Mass Communication major with an emphasis in sports broadcasting.