Elon University’s basketball standout, TJ Simpkins, is moving on to Seton Hall University, a decision he shared on social media on April 12. This is a significant change as Simpkins was a crucial player for the Elon Phoenix last season.
During his time at Elon, Simpkins averaged 14.6 points per game. He also contributed with 3.8 rebounds and had the second-highest number of assists on the team, totaling 85. His defensive skills shone through as he led the team in steals with 45 and recorded 11 blocks. Notably, he stood out in games against high-profile teams, scoring 18 points against North Carolina and 16 against Notre Dame.
Simpkins joined Elon for just one year after transferring from Northwest Florida State College. His departure leaves the Phoenix in a tough spot, with three key players from last year’s starting lineup now gone. Senior Sam Sherry has graduated, and his brother TK Simpkins is also transferring. In total, nine Elon players entered the transfer portal last month, and now only a couple of scholarship players, Isacc Harrell and Trey O’Neil, remain. This shift highlights the current challenges facing the Phoenix, as they try to rebuild their roster.
Seton Hall, where Simpkins will be continuing his career, had a difficult season last year, finishing with a record of 7-25 in the Big East Conference. They ended on a seven-game losing streak and haven’t made it to the NCAA Tournament since 2022, despite their historical presence, having qualified 14 times before. In contrast, Elon has never reached the NCAA Tournament in its Division I history, making Simpkins’ move to Seton Hall an intriguing one as he seeks to elevate his playing career.
As universities adapt to the new landscape of college athletics, player transfers are becoming more common, spurred by various factors such as better opportunities, coaching changes, and team dynamics. The impact of these transfers can reshape the future of programs significantly. The community around both Elon and Seton Hall will be watching closely to see how these changes play out.
Elon Athletics has not provided comments regarding Simpkins’ transfer at this time. For more details on player movements in college sports, you can refer to Verbal Commits, a resource that tracks these transitions.
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