The Lewis-Clark State College men’s basketball program has signed Daniel Simon, the Washington State Class 2A Player of the Year, to a letter-of-intent to play for the Warriors next season, Warrior coach Tim Walker announced Tuesday.

 

Simon, a 6-foot-5 guard/forward, averaged nearly 17 points, nine rebounds and three assists per game during his senior year and helped Ephrata High to both the district and state championship.

 

During the state tournament, opposing coaches tried special defenses to slow down Simon, but despite being double-and triple-teamed, he still finished 17 points in the state championship game and earned the state tournament’s MVP award.  Simon mainly played the No. 2 guard position during the season, but also saw time at point guard and forward.

 

He also earned first-team all-conference honors this season after being an honorable mention selection as a junior. Simon, who was a four-year starter and letterwinner at Ephrata High, served as the team captain for the final two seasons.

 

His all-around versatility, from playing making and scoring to rebounding and passing, is what caught the attention of the LCSC coaching staff. 

“We just love Daniel’s versatility,” LCSC coach Tim Walker said.  “The point guard position is his natural position, but he can play anywhere because of his skill set and his size.  He has a great feel for the game, can play make, and can pass the ball very well.  His whole mental approach to the game, and the fact he’s a great person, is what makes him a winner.  We are extremely pleased he chose Lewis-Clark State.”   

Simon, who is the son of Jerry and Cathy Simon, says he feels LCSC is the perfect place for him.

 

“It is just a really great fit academically and on the court,” Simon said about why he chose LCSC. “And I really like the coaching staff.”

 

Simon, who says he has a 3.54 GPA, will likely major in Kinesiology with an emphasis in either exercise science or sports medicine.

 

The Warriors went 22-10 last season and won both the Frontier Conference regular season and tournament titles for the second straight year. LCSC also qualified for the NAIA national tournament for the eighth time. The Warriors, however, lose six seniors from that squad.