Braxton transferring to George Mason University

After looking at all her options, Ashleigh Braxton figured it made the most sense to resume her college basketball career close to home.

The former Forest Park High standout has decided to transfer to George Mason University after playing her first two seasons at Pittsburgh.

By transferring from one Division I program to another, Braxton must sit out a year before being eligible to play.

"I am getting a chance to come home," Braxton said. "I want to draw fans to the women's game."

Braxton will get the opportunity to reunite with some of her former Forest Park teammates. Seniors Amber Epps and Deidre Richardson have signed with the Patriots while junior Briana Scott has committed to play for the Patriots.

With two years of college basketball experience already, Braxton is looking forward to helping those three adjust to the next level.

Another factor in Braxton's decision to transfer to George Mason was new head coach Jeri Porter.

Braxton knew a little bit about Porter during Porter's coaching career at Radford. Braxton has a great aunt who works at Radford and kept her posted on the women's basketball program.

In six years, Porter led the Highlanders to a 93-85 record. The last two seasons, they reached the Big South Conference Championship game and advanced to the WNIT this past season.

"I talked to the coaching staff and had a great conversation," Braxton said. "And their style of play reminded me of high school."

Braxton's high school coach, Chrissy Kelly, was on the previous coaching staff at GMU as an assistant. Kelly was let go after Porter was hired and brought in her own coaching staff.

Braxton was a four-year starter at Forest Park, helping to lead the Bruins to two Group AAA state championships and one state runner-up finish. She recorded 1,174 career points and 191 3-pointers.

Looking for a chance to get more playing time, Braxton decided to transfer from Pittsburgh.

At Pittsburgh, she was a reserve guard. This past season, the Panthers won 24 games and advanced to the NCAA Tournament Sweet 16 for the first time.