Jennie Simms' Journey: From Washington to Phoenix, a Tale of Resilience and Impact
Jennie Simms, a former college basketball star, embarked on a WNBA journey that took her from the Washington Mystics to the Phoenix Mercury, leaving a mark on both franchises. But her path to success was not without its twists and turns.
A Late-Round Pick's Beginnings:
Simms, a second-round pick in the 2017 WNBA Draft, began her professional career with the Mystics. However, her time in Washington was brief, appearing in just 10 games before being waived. This is where her story takes an unexpected turn. Shortly after, she found a new home with the Indiana Fever, but her stay there was also short-lived, playing only four games.
The Phoenix Opportunity:
Fast forward a few years, and Simms got her big break with the Phoenix Mercury. They signed her to a deal, and she became a key contributor in the 2022 and 2023 seasons. In her first year, she averaged 3.4 points and 2.2 rebounds in 23 games, primarily coming off the bench but starting in four games. And this is the part most people miss—her impact went beyond the stats.
A Career High and Team Success:
2023 was a challenging season for the Mercury, but Simms made the most of her six games, averaging 2.2 points and 2.2 rebounds. But here's where it gets interesting: during this season, she achieved her career-high in points. In a game against the Dallas Wings, Simms scored 14 points, helping Phoenix secure an impressive 86-74 victory. This was no ordinary win; it showcased the depth of the Mercury's talent.
A Balanced Effort:
In that game, Phoenix had four players with double-digit scores. Diamond DeShields led the way with 24 points, five rebounds, five assists, and two steals. Shey Peddy and Sophie Cunningham also contributed significantly, but Simms' performance stood out. She added four rebounds, two assists, a steal, and a block to her 14 points, showcasing her all-around game.
Rising to the Occasion:
Simms' time with the Mercury highlighted her ability to step up when given the chance. In both seasons, despite the team's struggles, she showcased her talent and even experienced the playoffs, averaging 5.5 points, three rebounds, and two assists against the Las Vegas Aces.
College Star to WNBA Contributor:
Simms' journey began at West Virginia and culminated at Old Dominion, where she excelled in her final year. Her college success translated to the WNBA, and her time with the Mercury left a lasting impression. But was it enough to cement her place in the league? Only time will tell.
Follow our journey through the history of the Phoenix Mercury, and discover more about players like Jennie Simms who left their mark. Click the link to join us on X (https://x.com/MercuryOnSI) and explore the stories of these remarkable athletes!
What do you think about Simms' journey and her impact on the Mercury? Do you think she has what it takes to become a long-term WNBA player? Share your thoughts and keep the conversation going!
