Ariana Simmons is staying close to home to play college basketball.

The South Side junior committed to the IPFW women’s basketball program Friday, choosing the Mastodons over another in-state choice in Evansville.

“I want to still be around my family and friends, and they can come see me play whenever they can,” Simmons said. “It seemed to be the right place for me to go. It was a perfect fit.”

Simmons averaged 14.7 points, 6.7 rebounds and 2.7 steals last year as the Archers won SAC regular-season and tournament titles.

South Side (22-2) was ranked third in Class 4A and won the Homestead Sectional title but lost to SAC rival Snider 68-67 in the Kokomo Regional semifinals.

Simmons said she told Mastodons coach Chris Paul of her decision on campus Friday.

“I thought it would be better to tell him face-to-face instead of making a call,” Simmons said. “I am happy with my choice, and I think I can make a difference there.”

The Mastodons went 9-21 overall and 6-12 in the Summit League this season.