During the first few weeks of the college basketball season, Rutgers fans have had plenty of reasons to celebrate. The Scarlet Knights have won four straight and are off to a 4-1 start. While their success has been fueled by familiar faces such as Clifford Omoruyi, Derek Simpson has been a scoring machine.
In five games, the New Jersey native is averaging 10.8 points and 1.2 steals per game. Simpson is also putting his teammates in a position to be successful, averaging a team-leading four assists per game. His play has stood out to Rutgers’ head coach, Steve Pikiell.
Derek Simpson with the dagger. 🗡️ pic.twitter.com/6Eh5DNTUAY
— Big Ten Men’s Basketball (@B1GMBBall) November 16, 2023
“He has just been taking command the past couple of games,” Pikiell told reporters about Simpson following a post-game press conference this weekend.
“He’s really shown some tremendous leadership. It starts with his defense. They’re really good guards today to playing against. One is a transfer from Maryland and some all-league type guys, so I think it starts with his defense. He had it going today and is one of the best foul shooters in the country. He’s taking care of his body. He’s practicing the right way, there are great days ahead.”
In Rutgers latest win, Simpson took center stage as the Scarlet Knights reached the 80-point mark for the first time this season. The talented sophomore led the team in scoring with 23 points while making two three-pointers. Along with Omoruyi and Aundre Hyatt, the Scarlet Knights have a trio that frustrates opponents on a nightly basis.
While the season is far from over, Simpson is making an immediate impact and providing a needed boost offensively.