Getting your Trinity Audio player ready...

The Mississippi Delta Community College women’s basketball team has built a Selma branch.

Selma High forward Aeraeonna Manuel signed a scholarship to play for MDCC on Tuesday in the school’s gymnasium. She was surrounded by her parents, Tyrone Sheppard Sr. and Artisha Manuel and other family members.

Manuel joins guard Rodericka Parker on the Lady Trojans’ roster next season.

The Selma Times-Journal girls basketball player of the year said MDCC stood out over several schools. Stillman College was among the schools that expressed interest in Manuel.

“I picked Mississippi Delta because I wanted to play outside the state of Alabama,” Manuel said. “I need to get outside the state. I also have a good friend who plays at Delta.”

Selma High girls basketball coach Willie Morgan praised Manuel for her leadership on and off the court. Manuel averaged 20 points and nine rebounds a game, earning Class 5A all-state third team honors.

“I’m so proud of Manuel,” Morgan said. “She worked her tail off to get this scholarship. If I wasn’t able to be at the start of practice, Aeraeonna would lead practice.”

Selma High Athletic Director Katasha Turner praised the athletic skills of Manuel, who made The Selma Times-Journal All Dallas County volleyball team.

“Aeraeonna dedicated herself and worked hard, she’s a great athlete,” Turner said.