Peekskill’s Nyrie Holliman Signs Letter of Intent to Play Basketball for American International College

Hard work, dedication and an endless number of hours on the basketball court have paid off for Peekskill High School senior, Nyrie Holliman who, on May 2, signed a National Letter of Intent to play basketball at American International College (AIC) in Springfield, MA. Holliman will be attending AIC this fall on a full athletic scholarship and plans to major in Business with a concentration in Sports Management.

In a ceremony held in the Peekskill High School Library, Holliman was joined by family, friends, coaches, PHS teachers and District administration.

“It’s a very special day for PHS,” said Peekskill City School District Athletic Director Lou Panzanaro. “This national letter of intent means that a college has recognized the ability and talents of one of our students and has offered them a scholarship to come play for their school. That doesn’t happen without a lot of work. Nyrie started that work when she was very young and she has worked year round. She has stayed focus and true to her dreams, and today, she’s realizing the fruit of that dream that she’s had for a long time.”

PHS Principal Mr. Rodney Arthur echoed Panzanaro’s words of praise, further complimenting Holliman on her character and accomplishments.

“You are a person of strong character, and strong will and on behalf of the entire staff, we wish you the best, and we thank you for being a role model to our students here at PHS,” said Arthur.

Before signing her letter, Holliman, who has been playing basketball since the age of five, thanked those who have helped her achieve her goals over the years. Her career began playing on multiple Amature Athletic Union (AAU) teams, and escalated in middle school when she was placed on the Girls’ Varsity Basketball team as an eighth grader. Holliman went on to win two Section One titles, helping to bring the coveted Gold Ball to Peekskill in 2012 and again in 2013. She also has two slam dunk championships under her belt.

Most recently, Holliman played under the direction of Coach James Robinson, whom she noted was a positive influence on her game.

“Coach Rob really helped me,” Holliman said. “His passion for the game is just amazing.”

When asked what she enjoyed best about playing ball, Holliman noted that the travel time between games that she spent with her father held a special place in her heart.

“My favorite part of all of this has been the traveling for games I’ve done with my dad,” said Holliman. “That’s how we got to bond.”

“I’m very proud of my daughter,” said Nyrie’s father, Leonard Holliman. “It took a lot of hard work, a lot of stress and a lot of sacrifice to get her to this point, and I’m just very proud of her.”

After the signing, Holliman and guests celebrated with a cake the district had made for the occasion.