Class of 2016 shooting guard D’Marcus Simonds of Gainesville, Ga., is a proven scorer as a high school prep. The 6-foot-4 wing is one of the best in the nation at scoring in the mid-range. We have evaluated Simonds game numerous times over the past year and we take a look at what offensive systems he would fit in at the next level.
6’4″ Shooting Guard
Gainesville, Ga.
Gainesville HS / Atlanta Celtics
Ranked No. 59 in the BrandonClayScouting.com ELITE 100
Read D’Marcus’ evaluations here.
STRENGTHS
-Great mid-range pull-up game with soft touch on his jumper.
-Size, strength and athleticism.
-Creates mismatches as he can score inside and out. Including the ability to post smaller guards.
-Explosive in transition to finish at the rim.
Offensive Systems that would fit Simond’s skill set:
Up-tempo/Fast paced offense, Dribble Drive offense, Pro-style Isolation sets
What would Coach Hemi run for D’Marcus Simonds?
Simonds versatility is intriguing, however it is best to keep the ball in the guard’s hands where he likes it best: At the top of the key. He is most comfortable attack the lane facing the basket and pulling up for jumpers around the free throw line area. Keeping this in mind, it is important to get a player like Simonds moving before you get him an isolation situation. Also allowing for several options off of the same action is important for variety.
HORNS SCREEN THE SCREENER
1. This is a screen the screener action, but I like to run this out of a horns set rather a box or 1-4 high. this is because it takes the help defense out of the picture.
2. Getting x2 to help on the screen just for a half second is important to get Simonds to catch the ball near the top of the key. If he is forced to catch the ball beyond the NBA 3-point arc, this will only create more work for him to do off of the dribble.
3. The wrinkle I like in this set is keeping both posts on the same side here, which creates a downhill drive for Simonds to his left hand. He really likes to pull-up going to his left-hand or gives him options to dish.
4. Another option for Simonds is to reverse the ball to 3 and then immediately post on the weakside. Spacing on the opposite would be key in this situation.
Highlights of Simonds courtesy of @KrisWatkinsPSB
Jonathan Hemingway is the owner of Coach Hemingway Basketball, Inc. Hemingway is on the Board of Selectors for the Naismith Trophy. He has worked within the basketball community since 1995 as a coach, camp director and journalist. He works as the assistant director of scouting for the JumpOffPlus.com and the OTRHoopsReport.com, which are scouting reports that service over 200 college and universities nationwide. Reach him via email at JonathanHemingway@PeachStateBasketball.com.
