# 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.
- Title: TJ Simpkins Emerges as Key Player for Mississippi State
- Summary: 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…
- Keywords: tj simpkins, mississippi state, nc state, seattle, seahawks, nfl, college basketball, preseason exhibition, sec, field goal percentage, three point percentage, free throw percentage
- Source: Mississippi State Bulldogs On SI — https://si.com/college/mississippistate/basketball/simpkins-emerges-key-player-for-bulldogs-after-impressive-performance-against-wolfpack
- Published: 2026-10-20T16:35:54+00:00
- Read time: 1 min
- Topics: tj simpkins, mississippi state, nc state, seattle, seahawks, nfl, college basketball, preseason exhibition, sec, field goal percentage, three point percentage, free throw percentage
## 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
## Key takeaway

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.