Cedar Rapids Washington senior Abby Herb did not want any big parties at school or any press conferences when she signed a letter-of-intent to play basketball at Mount Mercy University.

She's excited about the next step in her life and looking forward to playing for the Mustangs, but she's kind of shy and wanted to sign quietly last month.

"I just wanted to sign the paper without a bunch of people there and get all nervous and my hand would be shaking," she said.

Herb, a 6-foot post player, is having a strong season for the 10th-ranked Warriors with 15.8 points, 6.6 rebounds and 2.6 blocked shots per game. She ranks second in the Mississippi Valley Conference with 23 blocks, trailing only Kaz Brown of Cedar Falls.

Washington Coach Frank Howell said Herb also does the "dirty jobs" for the Warriors, such as taking charges and setting screens, in addition to her ability to score, rebound and block shots.

"She's the type of kid you'd want on any team you'd ever coach," he said. "I'm glad she's going to stay in Cedar Rapids so we can watch her play."

Herb said she had other college offers, but had no trouble picking Mount Mercy. "It wasn't a tough choice. I knew I wanted to go there," she said.

Herb said she plans to study English and would like to be a book publisher some day. "That's all I do," she said with a laugh. "I play basketball and I read books."

Mount Mercy University and Coach Aaron Jennings have a 3-12 record this season.

Herb said she's glad to know where she's headed for college. "I feel great," she said. "I really can't wait to play for Coach Jennings."