By RayJaun Stelly, The Seattle Medium
The University of Oregon’s women’s basketball program recently announced the hiring of former University of Washington standout and pro basketball player, Tre Simmons, as its new assistant coach.
In life, the pursuit of growth and perseverance often leads to remarkable achievements. Tre Simmons embodies this philosophy, from his days as a standout student-athlete at the University of Washington to a successful 14-year professional basketball career. After retiring from pro basketball, Simmons seamlessly transitioned to coaching both boys’ and girls’ basketball at Garfield High School. His journey, however, didn’t stop there; Simmons has ventured into entrepreneurship, owning his own clothing line and beer brand. Now, he adds another chapter to his well-decorated resume by joining the University of Oregon’s women’s basketball team’s coaching staff.
“My whole life, I had to persevere through a lot of things, including basketball,” said Simmons. “That’s just how my life is set up. I always want to set the bar high for myself, no matter what it is, and to set an example for others.”
During the current offseason, Simmons initially applied for the Oregon Ducks director of women’s basketball operations position. However, when a coaching position became available after Sadie Edwards joined the Baylor staff, Simmons seized the opportunity to take his experienced leadership as a player and coach to Oregon.
In announcing the hiring, Oregon’s Head Women’s Coach, Kelly Graves, praised Simmons for his leadership qualities and deep knowledge and love for the game.
“Throughout his entire collegiate and professional career, Tre has exemplified leadership,” Graves said. “His energy and passion are contagious, and our team will love being around him. Tre has an innate ability to connect with people, making him a tremendous coach and an ideal fit for our program.”
Simmons’ coaching career has been marked by success, most recently securing two state championships as the girls’ head coach and boys’ assistant coach with the Garfield Bulldogs program. His passion for the game and his ability to motivate players have earned him praise and admiration both on and off the court.
“The emotions running through my body at that time when the coach called me, it was a dream come true. Now I have to take advantage of the opportunity and show everyone this is where I belong,” said Simmons about his new role at Oregon. “The coaching staff has shown me nothing but gratitude, and I am thrilled to join this coaching staff and program.”
“This hiring feels great, especially having daughters of my own helping develop women in this sport and it’s evolved so much,” said Simmons. “There’s not much of a difference between men’s and women’s basketball as far as the mentality aspect, these women are just as hungry.”
Simmons’ coaching journey at Garfield High School played a significant role in landing this new position at the collegiate level. His ability to connect with players and drive them to success earned him the recognition and respect of the Oregon Ducks coaching staff.
Simmons’ journey is far from over, and his positive impact continues to be felt in every endeavor he undertakes. As he takes on his new role with the University of Oregon women’s basketball team, the community eagerly awaits the next chapter in his remarkable story.
“I’ve been getting nothing but praise in my city; they’re very proud, and it gives them hope as well because of where I came from. I love being an impact on people. I try to help in any way I can,” Simmons passionately expressed.
