Pirate Preview: Tajuan Simpkins

Published: Thursday, October 23, 2025

by Jacob Glick

The Seton Hall Pirates are looking to rebound from a disappointing season which saw them end with a 7-25 record. The Pirates sport a new look this year with junior guard Tajuan Simpkins being one of those players.

Simpkins, originally from Brooklyn, started his college career at Northwest Florida State College. In 33 games during the 2022-2023 season, he averaged 15 points, 2.1 assists, and 3.8 rebounds on 46.1% shooting from the field and 35.9% from three in just over 28 minutes per game. 

Prior to last season, he transferred to Elon University where in 29 games (12 starts), he averaged 14.6 points, 2.9 assists, 3.8 rebounds, and 1.6 steals per game.  He shot 40.8% from the field and 26.3% from downtown. 

Standing at 6 feet, 4 inches tall, Simpkins brings a unique blend of scoring, playmaking, defensive intensity, and physicality. At the guard position, these qualities are crucial for Shaheen Holloway’s gritty and competitive system.

Joined alongside fellow transfer Budd Clark, Simpkins brings dynamic scoring in the backcourt, something Seton Hall was lacking badly last season following the departures of Kadary Richmond and Al-Amir Dawes. Beyond the catch and shoot, Simpkins has shown the ability to penetrate the lane and finish through contact, which should create space on the perimeter for the Pirates.

On the defensive side of the ball, Simpkins offers size uncommon for many college guards. He had 45 steals and 11 blocks in just 29 games last season, which is a reflection of his defensive instincts and awareness in the passing lanes as well as his high motor.

Simpkins’ ability to play off the ball and defend multiple positions gives Coach Holloway flexibility in how to use him. Whether it’s starting at the two-guard or a defensive stopper off the bench that can score in bursts, Simpkins will provide a spark to this rebuilt Pirates team.

Jacob Glick can be reached at jacob.glick@student.shu.edu.

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