Cranston East standout basketball player Aydan Gulliver made her college decision official as she recently chose DIII Eastern Connecticut State University where she will be competing in the 2023-24 season.

Gulliver had a breakout year for the Thunderbolts last season and guided East to another Division II playoff appearance as well as qualifying for the statewide tournament. Gulliver was a Division II Honorable Mention for the Rhode Island Girls Basketball Coaches Association. She will return to East this winter for one more season before heading to the next level.

“I was very excited to make the decision. When I made it, it felt like a big weight was lifted off my shoulders. The process really started spring of my junior year and I went on so many tours and campus visits. It was a lot of work doing that while cramming in my normal classwork. I was very grateful, but very relieved,” said Gulliver.

Gulliver was impressed with the Eastern Connecticut campus, which she said was the most beautiful she visited, and also felt right at home with the team, especially with coach Denise Bierly.

“When I met the team and met the coach, I saw the connection between her and the players. That means a lot to me, I want to be able to connect with my coach,” said Gulliver.

With one more season at the high school level, Gulliver hopes to use it to polish her skills, knowledge, and to make one last run at a division and state championship.

“Just working on my IQ. Reading the defense better, knowing when went to make the pass, when to keep the ball, when the shoot, which shot to take, and knowing how to incorporate my teammates better,” said Gulliver of what she will be focusing on. “I’m excited for the season. The goal is to make it back to the state tournament and division playoffs, but to make it even further.”