“From Elon to Oregon: TK Simpkins’ Bold Move Sparks Excitement for a Game-Changing Season!”

In the ever-evolving landscape of college basketball, few figures stand as adept as Oregon’s head coach, Dana Altman. Known for his pioneering use of the transfer portal, Altman continues to adapt and thrive in a competitive arena where roster changes are now part of the game’s DNA. Recently, he welcomed former Elon guard TK Simpkins into the fold—an exciting addition that adds depth to the Ducks’ backcourt as they gear up for the new season. Standing at 6-foot-4, Simpkins had a breakout year, posting impressive averages that not only earned him accolades but set the stage for his anticipated contribution to Oregon. With the departure of key players, including Keeshawn Barthelemy, Simpkins is poised to fill a crucial role—bringing his sharp shooting and dynamic play to the court alongside emerging talents like Jackson Shelstad. As Altman seeks to further bolster his lineup, the focus shifts to finding that elusive, versatile player who can elevate the team’s performance. Follow along as we dive deeper into these developments and explore what lies ahead for the Ducks in an exciting new chapter! LEARN MORE.

Altman is now likely looking for a TJ Bamba-like player in the portal, someone who is 6-6 or 6-7 and can readily get to the basket on the bounce. Those kinds of players don’t exactly grow on trees, but if he’s out there, Altman will most likely find him and convince him to be a Duck.Simpkins is expected to compete for a starting job and be a reliable shooting guard next to Jackson Shelstad in the backcourt. He’s likely to take Keeshawn Barthelemy’s spot on the roster with him out of eligibility. But former Texas guard and current Duck Devon Pryor could also challenge for that spot as well.Contact/Follow @Ducks_Wire on X (formerly Twitter) and like our page on Facebook to follow ongoing coverage of Oregon Ducks news, notes, and opinions.He has used the transfer portal long before it was fashionable and Altman’s relationship with the portal continues to be a good one as the Ducks have signed former Elon guard TK Simpkins.

The 6-foot-4 junior, who will be a senior next season, had a career year in 2024-25 as Simpkins averaged 16.4 points per game and was named a second-team All-Colonial Athletic Conference performer. He also shot 42 percent from the field, including a 37 percent clip from three-point range.Oregon men’s basketball coach Dana Altman is very used to this.