Sun Belt Basketball: Who are the stars for every team in 2017-18?
Arkansas State Red Wolves – SR Deven Simms
Transitioning from junior college the previous year, Simms became the sixth man who helped the Red Wolves finish in a surprising third last season. Despite registering no starts, Simms first finished second in scoring, which is right behind the other Devin in Devin Carter who is now recently graduated.
His debut for the team was on arguably the biggest stage for the Sun Belt squad when they played at Georgetown in the middle of the non-conference campaign. In his first game of the season, he scored 13 points off the bench, as well as made a key defensive play towards the end to seal the win.
Only averaging around 26 minutes a contest, Deven put up productive numbers with 13.4 points per game. He also contributes five boards, two assists, and a steal per game as well. At 6’5, Simms uses his size and athleticism to guard positions 1 through 4. Plus, his rebounding ability allows him to effectively play the four spot if a small ball lineup is utilized.
This upcoming year will be an opportunity to be the go-to player for Arkansas State now that Carter is gone. Expected to be a starter, his play will ultimately determine where the team will finish next year.