As expected, Arizona Wildcats freshman Kobi Simmons will leave the UA after one season for the NBA draft. The UA confirmed Simmons' long-rumored departure Wednesday afternoon.
Simmons averaged 8.7 points, 1.6 rebounds and 2.0 assists per game in his lone season at the UA. He appeared in all 37 games, though his role was greatly reduced in the postseason.
Simmons played in 15 minutes in the UA's penultimate home game against UCLA, but managed just five minutes the following game against Arizona State and a total of 13 minutes in three Pac-12 Tournament games. Simmons played 14 minutes in the Wildcats' NCAA Tournament blowout of North Dakota. Coach Sean Miller kept Simmons on the bench for most of the next two games: He played five minutes in a round-of-32 win over Saint Mary's, and just six in the Wildcats' Sweet 16 loss to Xavier. He scored a total of 13 points in the UA's six postseason games.
Simmons' reduced role and his pro potential — the shooter is still seen by many experts as a second-round pick — made his departure a near certainty. Simmons is the second Wildcat to formally declare for the draft: Lauri Markkanen announced his plans last week. Chance Comanche is rumored to be testing the draft waters, while Allonzo Trier and Rawle Alkins have yet to make their decisions.
“I have enjoyed my time at Arizona very much,” Simmons said in a news release. “I would like to thank my teammates, coaches and our great fans for their support and effort in making my year truly a special one. Bear Down.”
Added Miller: "All of us here at Arizona thank him for his freshman season and wish him continued success as he pursues his professional career.”
