As coach Shaka Smart and VCU make the move to the Atlantic-10 for the 2012-13 season, the Rams have now secured a commitment from a major player in the Class of 2013.
According to Tim Pearrell of the Richmond Times-Dispatch, Antravious Simmons of Miami, Fla., has committed to VCU.
Simmons, a 6-9, 225-pound prospect, had a range of high- and mid-major offers from schools that included Memphis, Kansas State, Temple, Alabama, Georgia, and South Florida.
At VCU, Simmons will have the size and build to be effective, especially around the rim and with his ability to run the floor.
Simmons becomes the third commit for Smart in the Class of 2013, joining guards Jairus Lyles and JeQuan Lewis.
Taking shape now are two straight impressive classes for VCU, following a 2012 class that was already strong before the late addition of guard Melvin Johnson, a former Miami commit.
Smart and the Rams finished 29-7 overall last season, including 15-3 in the CAA. They lost in the Round of 32 to Indiana, 63-61.
Along with Butler, VCU begins its first season as a member of the Atlantic-10 in 2012-13.
Daniel Martin is a writer and editor at JohnnyJungle.com, covering St. John’s. You can find him on Twitter:@DanielJMartin_