Each and every time Phenom Hoop Report gets to report or sees a commitment from a player we have seen over the years, it is always a fantastic day. It is great to see players achieve their goal to play at the next level and it is such a great accomplishment for that player.
Here is the latest commitment.
Player: Takia Simpkins/ Tajuan Simpkins
Class: 2022
Committed to: Illinois State
What the Player Said:
Phenom: Wanted to ask you why Illinois State was the place for you in the end' What caught your attention with the program' And what do you hope to bring/show to that program'
Takai: “The reason why I chose Illinois State was because it just felt like home. I also felt like I was wanted there and it was shown when I was on the visit. What caught my attention with the program was the love from the staff and not just what I can do now but the potential I could be in the future. I just want to bring the winning spirit to the program and try to take them to the tournament.”
Tajuan: “I feel like Illinois State was the place for me because the love they were showing from the jump and just believing in me. The thing that caught my attention was how everybody in the program not only the coaches but the players were making me feel like I was at home and they accepted me from when I walked through the door. I want to bring more winning and competitiveness to the program and show them that I’m ready to play from the time I step on campus.”
What Was Said by Phenom Hoops:
“When you look at Tajuan, he brings more of an aggressive attack to the court, showing that he can be more of a scoring threat with his athleticism and ability to knock down shots or get to the rim. The lefty seems to bring more of that scoring mentality to the court. When talking about Takai, this young man brings more of a facilitator and floor general to the court. He plays well with the ball in his hands, looking to penetrate and kick or simply find teammates in open spots, as he uses his length well. Takai has the ability to get to the rim but just has that floor general mentality.” – 2020
“Things really seem to start with the brotherly duo of 6’3 Takai Simpkins and 6’4 Tajuan Simpkins. Combined, they probably have the most bizarre recruiting situation in the region. They want to play together at the next level, but college coaches are largely unwilling at this point. Why' They’ve thrived, not just coexisted, as a pairing for the entirety of their respective playing careers—including with their current squad. Folks see an issue arising because the twins are widely seen as different levels of ability. Two things: First, they complement each other as well as any two players in the state. Secondly, the gap of separation is not quite as big as it’s being made out to be. Though Takai typically operates as the main floor general, Tajuan is more than comfortable at initiating the offense with the ball in his hands. The duo prefers an up-tempo style of play (primarily due to their incredible defensive prowess and ability to force turnovers), but are still quite effective within the half-court. Tajuan is a sharp cutter and utilizes his size very well to outmaneuver opponents around the basket. On the other hand, Takai is regarded for his shooting and instincts for making plays off the bounce. Both guys excel at playing hard, forcing turnovers, and working interchangeably on either side of the ball. They have all the makings of two guys who would outperform expectations.” – Jeff Bendel 2021
“Takai has easily solidified himself among the top players in the state. He’s an exceptional all-around athlete with the offensive skillset, defensive prowess, and transition presence to dominate on a nightly basis. Takai is a reliable shooter, passer, rebounder, and capable option with or without the ball. Expect more offers to come. Tajuan is capable of initiating the offense or playing with the ball in his hands, but also thrives as a cutter and when making an impact in transition. He understands how to navigate through traffic when attacking and sets up others or finishes strong through contact. Tajuan is a great defender and rebounder for his size, and is arguably at his best in up-tempo settings. Regardless, both brothers should have a lot of choices to further their playing careers.” – 2021