Head women's basketball coach Katrina Merriweather has announced the signing class of 2023 that includes Raven Sims, Nikole Thomas, Imani Morris and Delaney Snyder.
"This group of young ladies will not only provide depth but will be tremendous additions because of their citizenship and commitment to academics." said Merriweather. "They all love defense, are competitive and are incredibly aggressive. Our staff did a great job putting together a class that will help us continue to move in the right direction. We are thrilled to have their families join our family!"
Raven Sims | Guard | Memphis, Tenn. | Bartlett High School | Team B Wright
Sims, a native of the Bluff City, comes to Memphis following an impressive prep career that includes multiple awards and accomplishments. The 5-9 guard was the city's leading scorer and the state's second leading scorer during the 2021-22 season, was ranked as the 9th best player in the state of Tennessee this season and scored a record for most points in a single game with 41. During her junior year, Sims averaged 23 points, 11 rebounds and eight assists per game.
Sims was named as a Tennessee Player of the Year nominee in the 2021-22 season and was tabbed as the Newcomer of the Year in her freshman campaign. She is also a three-time Tennessee All-State honoree and helped lead Tipton Rosemark Academy to their first ever State Finals games in 2019-20.
Sims chose Memphis over ULM, Tennessee State, Georgia Southern, Arkansas State, South Alabama and Southern Mississippi.
Why Memphis for Sims:
"From the moment I stepped on campus, I knew it was where I was meant to be. The staff showed me nothing but genuine support from start to finish. No matter what, I knew I had a family in them. Most importantly, I want to put on for my city and show upcoming Memphis kids, not only can you achieve your dreams, but you can stay home and thrive right here in the city."
Coach Merriweather Thoughts:
"I love that Raven loves Memphis and defense. She is going to provide an immediate spark with her motor, energy, and work ethic. It's always special when we can keep our talent at home!"
Nikole Thomas | Guard | Pasco, Wash. | Kamiakan High School | GUAA Northwest Blazers
Thomas, a 5-7 guard from Pasco, Washington, comes to Memphis after a very successful career at Kamiakan High School where she was a three-time MVP, defensive MVP and team captain. Thomas, who is originally from the 901, is posting impressive numbers with 17 points, 7.6 rebounds, 4.0 assists and 3.0 steals per game for the Braves.
The ESPN 3-star athlete is also ranked #9 by Prep Girls Hoops Washington and is a three-time SWX Media All-Star and Mid-Columbia Conference All-Defensive Team selection. She was also named to as the 2020-21 Mid-Columbia Defensive Player of the Year and was an All-Conference selection in back-to-back seasons.
Thomas chose Memphis over Washington State, Weber State, Eastern Washington, Montana State, University of Charleston and University of Texas-Rio Grande Valley.
Why Memphis for Thomas:
"I chose the University of Memphis and the staff because I wanted to be a part of 'The Sisterhood' and they gave me the opportunity to come back home and play."
Coach Merriweather Thoughts:
"We are excited to bring Nikole back to the 901. She has tremendous leadership ability and loves the game. Her IQ and ability to play multiple positions will impact the team immediately."
Imani Morris | Post | Oakland, Calif. | Duncanville High School | SwiftKids Elite EYBL
Morris, a 6-4 post player out of Dallas, comes to Memphis after averaging a near double-double with eight points and eight rebounds while blocking three shots a game. The Ronald McNair standout was ranked first in the section, fifth in the state of California and 24th in the nation in blocked shots during the 2019-20 season. Morris would go on to keep her shot-blocking crown in the section during the 2020-21 season.
Morris is currently ranked as the 25th best player in Texas and the #1 post player by Prep Girls Hoops.
Morris chose Memphis over Arkansas State and Arkansas Pine-Bluff.
Why Memphis for Morris:
"When I met Coach Merriweather and her staff, I knew I wanted to play basketball for them and that my maturation in becoming a well-rounded woman would blossom under their tutelage. I knew I was home when I visited and that I could give my all to the University of Memphis!"
Coach Merriweather Thoughts:
"I knew when we saw Imani for the first time, she was exactly what we needed. She is active defensively, has incredible athleticism, and has barely scratched the surface of who she can be."
Delaney Snyder | Post | Richmond, Va. | TPLS Christian Academy | FBC Havoc AAU
Snyder, a 6-5 post player out of Richmond, Va., comes to Memphis after making a statement at TPLS Christian Academy. Snyder recorded career highs of 17 points and 12 rebounds in a single game while also blocking seven shots in another. This season, she is ranked as a top-10 player in the state of Virginia.
Snyder chose Memphis over Queens, Marshall, Sacred Heart, Lipscomb and Mount St. Mary's.
Why Memphis for Snyder:
"I chose Memphis because of their family-like environment with the staff and team; Coach Trina made me feel like I was home. I loved everything about the school and the different opportunities that come from playing basketball at Memphis!"
Coach Merriweather Thoughts:
"Delaney brings a defensive presence with her size and aggressiveness. She also has the ability to stretch the floor. Her personality and commitment to development makes her unique and a great fit."
Original source can be found here
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