Watkins Glen basketball fans have a new reason to cheer as local standout Chris Simiele is taking his game to the next level. The sharpshooting guard has officially committed to play for Hilbert College, bringing his electrifying style to the Hawks' program in Hamburg, New York.

Simiele's decision comes on the heels of a memorable senior season with the Lake Hawks, where he cemented his legacy as one of the area's most clutch performers. Watkins Glen finished as Section IV Class B runner-up, and Simiele was a key reason for their deep postseason run. He dropped 17 points in the Section IV Quarterfinals, then elevated his game when it mattered most—scoring 21 in the semifinals and an explosive 29 in the championship showdown against Windsor.

Hilbert College, located just outside Buffalo, posted a solid 16-11 record last season and already has some familiarity with the region, having secured an 87-76 win over Elmira College. Simiele's ability to heat up from beyond the arc will be a welcome addition to the Hawks' backcourt. As a sophomore at Watkins Glen, he set the school's single-game record for three-pointers with eight—a feat that speaks volumes about his long-range prowess.

For a player who thrives under pressure and has a knack for delivering in big moments, the move to college basketball feels like a natural next step. Whether he's draining threes or leading fast breaks, Simiele is poised to make an immediate impact at Hilbert. Keep an eye on this Lake Hawk as he trades the Section IV hardwood for the collegiate stage.