Jennie Simms' journey to the WNBA is a testament to her unwavering determination and incredible talent, but it's her college performances that truly steal the spotlight. Imagine dropping 45 points in a single game—that's exactly what Simms did during her time at Old Dominion, leaving opponents in awe and fans on the edge of their seats. And this is just the tip of the iceberg.
Simms joined the Phoenix Mercury during a pivotal yet challenging period. The 2022 season was a rollercoaster for the team, especially with the absence of star player Brittney Griner. Despite reaching the WNBA Finals in 2021, the Mercury struggled to maintain their momentum, ultimately facing a swift playoff exit at the hands of the Las Vegas Aces. With a 15-21 record, the team was in dire need of fresh talent, and Simms stepped in as one of their new additions. In her debut season, she played 23 games, starting in four, and averaged 3.4 points and 2.2 rebounds. Her 2023 season was shorter, with only six games played, coinciding with one of the Mercury's toughest seasons.
But here's where it gets fascinating: before her WNBA stint, Simms was a college basketball phenom. After starting her career at West Virginia, she transferred to Old Dominion, where she became a scoring machine. Her 45-point game against Florida International wasn’t just a fluke—it was a showcase of her ability to dominate on the court. In that game, she also grabbed 11 rebounds, dished out three assists, and snagged two steals, leading Old Dominion to an 80-67 victory. Ashley Betz-White, the only other Monarch in double figures, contributed 12 points, but it was Simms who stole the show.
And this is the part most people miss: Simms didn’t stop there. A few years later, she dropped 43 points against Marshall, single-handedly leading her team to a 73-69 win. She followed that up with a 41-point performance against Florida Atlantic, adding 13 rebounds, six assists, three blocks, and two steals in a 93-73 blowout. These weren’t just random outbursts—they were consistent displays of her elite skill set.
Throughout her college career, Simms averaged an impressive 20.7 points, 7.1 rebounds, 3.2 assists, and 1.3 steals per game. While her role with the Mercury wasn’t as prominent, her contributions were invaluable during a difficult period for the team. Players like Simms provided much-needed relief, showcasing her ability to perform under pressure.
But here’s the controversial question: Was Simms underutilized in the WNBA, or did her college success simply set unrealistic expectations? Her college numbers suggest a superstar in the making, yet her WNBA stats tell a different story. Is it the system, the competition, or something else entirely? We’d love to hear your thoughts in the comments.
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