​ @Notevend2 talks with current American University men's basketball head coach, Duane Simpkins, on this week's episode. Simpkins grew up in the DMV where he played under legendary coach, Morgan Wootten at DeMatha Catholic. Simpkins was a star and would finish his career as a McDonald's All-American.

After a dominant high school career, he was recruited by most schools around the country and would end up committing to Maryland. Simpkins also had a good career at Maryland where he'd finish with 3 All-ACC honors. Even after much success as a player, getting into coaching didn't happen right away.

Simpkins would end up becoming the Director of Basketball Operations at Towson University for his first college coaching opportunity. He'd later have stops coaching at the high school levell, UNC-Greensboro, and George Mason. He spent 8 seasons coaching at George Mason before getting his first head coaching opportunity.

On April 1st, 2023 American University announced the hiring of Duane Simpkins. The 2024-25 season was just his second season in a head coaching role and he led American to their first NCAA tournament in over a decade. American finished the season 22-13 (13-5) and captured a Patriot League championship.

Hear about Simpkins' favorite memories growing up in the DMV, what he learned coaching under different mentors, and how he plans to build upon the success his program recently had.

This episode is available wherever you listen to podcasts. Make sure to subscribe to the podcasts YouTube channel ​⁠ for more sports content.

Enjoy the episode!

Sneak Peak- 00:00-00:56

NBA Finals Recap / Intro- 00:56-07:53

Offseason Differences being HC vs AC, Film Focuses, Developing Plays- 07:53-14:17

What Made AU Special during 2024-25 Season, Americans Fan Support, Patriot League Tournament- 14:17-21:10

Implementing Fast Paced Offense at American, Learning from Kim English- 21:10-24:06

Non-Conference Schedule for 2025-26 Season, How American Stands Out in the DMV- 24:06-30:07

Growing up in the DMV, Relationship with Kenny Blakeney, ACC/Maryland Basketball in the Late 90's- 30:07-42:02

Len Bias Situation & Impact on DMV, Honor Playing for Maryland, Advice to Younger Generation on Getting a Career in Sports- 42:02-50:33

Break- 50:33-50:43

Challenges Becoming a First Time HC, Learning from Mentors- 50:43-55:36

Player Development Process, Goals to Building on Previous Years Success- 55:36-01:02:17

Rapid Fire (Favorite ACC PG Matchup, Intense Arenas to Play/Coach In, Funniest Coaches Worked For)- 01:02:17-01:09:54

Starting 5: Best DMV Players- 01:09:54-01:14:17

Outro- 01:14:17-01:14:52