Bleav in DMV Hoops: American University head coach & former Maryland guard Duane Simpkins

American University head coach Duane Simpkins joins the podcast this week. Simpkins provided his perspective on how American's season went, having some key players returning for next year, bringing out the best in his players, and the type of program he wants to build and style of play he wants to implement. He also talks about playing at the University of Maryland for Gary Williams and what he's learned from other coaches he's worked for in the past. Simpkins provides some really detailed insight into what his team is looking to do on the offensive and defensive sides of the ball as well as what he learned in Year 1 as a college head coach. He also shares a story about playing for Boston Celtics great Robert Parish in the USBL and why the DMV is the best basketball area in the country. Presented by betonline.ag!
0:00 - Welcoming American head coach Duane Simpkins
0:36 - Off-season expectations
2:48 - Takeaways on Simpkins’ first season
4:22 - Defensive struggles & offensive strengths
7:21 - Matt Rogers, Lincoln Ball, Colin Small’s fifth-year returns & incoming recruits
9:16 - The value of obtaining an American Univ. degree
11:46 - Simpkins’ overseas experience
13:34 - Recruiting in the DMV
16:39 - Rogers’ improvements, maximizing team efforts
20:05 - Trusting team roles & building relationships off-court
22:25 - Incorporating old with the new like Flex offense wrinkles
24:03 - Simpkins talks playing under coach Gary Williams at Maryland
28:19 - American’s playing style & expectations for next season
29:56 - Impacts of playing a no-middle defense
32:00 - Simpkins’ memories with USBL coach and Celtic great Robert Parish
33:15 - Fun facts about Simpkins
34:33 - Where will American Basketball be in 5 years?
38:10 - What sets DMV basketball apart from the rest?