From Mississippi State Bulldogs On SI · · 1m 30s
TJ Simpkins Emerges as Key Player for Mississippi State
TJ Simpkins scores 20 points with 9 assists in NC State exhibition, boosting Mississippi State's preseason outlook.
In brief
TJ Simpkins scores 20 points with 9 assists in NC State exhibition, boosting Mississippi State's preseason outlook. TJ Simpkins delivered 20 points and 9 assists against NC State in a preseason exhibition, offering Mississippi State a strong offensive option for the SEC season. Originally reported by Mississippi State…
TJ Simpkins Performance Highlights
TJ Simpkins scored 20 points, five rebounds and nine assists against NC State in a preseason exhibition on October 18.
“TJ Simpkins delivered an impressive individual performance that offered plenty of reasons for optimism”
Simpkins' Career Statistics
Simpkins has 741 points, 202 rebounds, 125 assists and 81 steals across 62 career games.
“Simpkins has connected on 40.6% of his field-goal attempts, 31.7% of his three-pointers and 79.7% of his free throws”
Simpkins' Shooting Efficiency
Simpkins has 40.6% field goal percentage, 31.7% three-point percentage and 79.7% free throw percentage.
“His career totals also include 42 double-digit scoring performances, 33 games with multiple assists and 24 outings with multiple steals”
Simpkins' Physical Attributes
Simpkins is 6-foot-4 and weighs 195 pounds, providing size for physical play and ball handling.
“At 195 pounds, Simpkins has the size to compete physically while providing Mississippi State with another ball handler”
Simpkins' Impact on Team
Simpkins' playmaking could help Mississippi State generate consistent offense against SEC defenses.
“His nine assists against NC State were particularly encouraging. If that playmaking translates into the regular season”
Hubbard and Simpkins Backcourt Synergy
Hubbard leads backcourt conversation as preseason All-SEC first-team selection; Simpkins could complement his scoring.
“Hubbard enters the season with significant expectations after earning a spot on the preseason All-SEC first team”
Chemistry Challenge for Mississippi State
Simpkins and Hubbard must develop strong chemistry to maximize offensive potential against SEC teams.
“That makes chemistry an important storyline heading into the season. Simpkins’ ability to distribute the basketball could allow Hubbard to find better scoring opportunities”
Coaching Balance Challenge
Head coach Chris Jans must balance scoring, ball movement and defensive responsibility.
“The challenge for head coach Chris Jans will be finding the right balance between scoring, ball movement and defensive responsibility”
Exhibition Game Context
Mississippi State's four-point loss to NC State should not be treated as a definitive measure of team potential.
“The four-point exhibition loss to NC State should not be treated as a definitive measure of Mississippi State’s potential”
Simpkins' Next Step
Simpkins must maintain consistent performance to become a major asset for Mississippi State.
“The next step is consistency. Simpkins must show that he can make an impact alongside Hubbard and the rest of the roster”
At a glance
TJ Simpkins delivered 20 points and 9 assists against NC State in a preseason exhibition, offering Mississippi State a strong offensive option for the SEC season.
