Duane Simpkins was hired to the George Mason men's basketball staff in 2015. He wrapped up his eighth season with the Patriots in 2022-23. Simpkins served under
gomason.com
“'I’ve always had the utmost respect for Coach Simpkins,' English said. 'I admire his illustrious career as a prep player, as a collegian and how he’s cut his teeth in the professional ranks. For years I’ve admired the way he carries himself in this business. When talking to people I respect in this region and in our game, I’ve heard nothing but GREAT things about "Simp," and many of these glowing reports about his character and integrity were unsolicited. Most of all, as I got to know our players, it was clear how much they all loved, admired and appreciated Duane Simpkins. I’m excited to have him and his family as a part of what we’re building here at Mason.'
One of the most respected assistants in the national coaching ranks, Silverwaves Media named Simpkins as one of the country’s Top-50 Most Impactful Mid-Major Assistants in 2020. In addition, he has earned an invite to Top Connect – which brings premier athletic directors and assistant coaches together – in each of the past two seasons. At the 2019 Final Four, he also participated in the Collegiate Coaching Consortium, sponsored by AthleticDirectorU and the National Association of Basketball Coaches (NABC).
'I’m extremely excited to work with Coach English and the rest of the staff that he has put in place to move the George Mason basketball program forward,' Simpkins said. 'Coach English’s clear strategic vision for our program, coupled with his tremendous enthusiasm for the welfare and development of our student-athletes on and off the court, jumped out at me from our very first conversation. To be a part of the process to make that vision come to fruition has given me a renewed enthusiasm for what I’m passionate about - that’s recruiting, mentoring, developing, and retaining talented student-athletes here at George Mason.
I’m beyond thrilled to be able to continue working with the young men on our roster. There is a genuine love that I have developed with each and every player and their families and I am happy that I will be able continue to help develop all of our young men to be the best people, students, and players that they can be.'”
We did at least once I can remember; he let Otis push it against UMass who then found Boyd for the buzzer beater. Granted, I can’t remember if we had a timeout left at that point. Some nerd on here will look it up for me anyways.
