WSU Basketball Transfer Simon Hildebrandt

In an exciting development for Washington State University (WSU) basketball, Simon Hildebrandt, a talented forward from High Point University, has officially signed with the Cougars. Simon's journey through the transfer portal and his transition to WSU marks a significant moment not just for him, but for the team as they gear up for the upcoming season. This article delves into Simon's background, his experiences, and what he brings to the Cougars as they look to enhance their performance on the court.

The Journey to WSU

Simon Hildebrandt's basketball journey began in Winnipeg, Canada, where he honed his skills and developed a passion for the sport. After playing two successful years with the Manitoba Bisons, Simon made the leap to Division I basketball, joining High Point University. His time at High Point was marked by a historic achievement: the team became the first in the school's history to make it to the NCAA tournament.

When Simon entered the transfer portal, he had a clear goal in mind: to find a program that not only fit his style of play but also matched his aspirations. “I hit the portal and was in it for about a week,” Simon explained. “Coach Riley and his staff reached out to me and my agents, and we set up a Zoom meeting to discuss how I would fit into their system.” This initial connection was crucial for Simon, as it allowed him to gauge the coaching staff's vision and how it aligned with his own goals.

Why WSU?

During his recruitment, Simon was particularly drawn to the playing style and philosophy of Coach Riley and his staff. “Right when I first met him, he showed me how they play and how they use guys like myself,” Simon shared. “It was music to my ears.” The excitement of joining a program that prioritizes a fun and dynamic brand of basketball was a significant factor in his decision to transfer to WSU.

Campus Visits

Simon visited the WSU campus last weekend, which further solidified his choice. “Getting to meet these guys in person and see the campus was just perfect,” he said. “It was beautiful when I was there, and I can't wait to be part of that environment.” The campus tour and personal interactions with the coaching staff and current players helped him envision his future at WSU.

Building Trust

Trust is a vital component in any athlete-coach relationship, and Simon emphasized the importance of having faith in Coach Riley and his approach. “I reached out to some former players, Dane and Ethan, who played under Coach Riley,” he recounted. “They spoke nothing but amazing things about the coaches and how the team is run.” This feedback from previous players played a crucial role in Simon’s decision-making process.

Success at High Point

Simon played a pivotal role in High Point’s remarkable season, where the team achieved a 29-win record and made its way to the NCAA tournament. “Winning is hard,” he acknowledged. “Being part of a successful team taught me about cohesiveness and what it takes to compete at a high level.” The lessons learned during that season, especially in high-pressure situations, will be invaluable as he transitions to the competitive landscape of the Pac-12.

What Simon Brings to the Cougars

As a 6'9" forward, Simon's versatility on the court is one of his biggest assets. He has showcased impressive statistics, including a 73% free throw percentage and around 40% from the three-point line. His ability to shoot from distance, combined with his size, allows him to create mismatches against defenders. “If you put a small guy on me, I’ll take him down to the post,” Simon explained, highlighting his offensive skill set. “I can shoot the three, and if a defender closes out on me, I can blow by them using my athleticism.”

Rebounding and Defense

Another area where Simon aims to make an impact is rebounding. He mentioned that Coach Riley emphasized the need for players who can contribute on the boards. “I think I can help with rebounding this year,” he stated confidently. His defensive rebounding efficiency, along with offensive rebounding, were key statistics that attracted the coaching staff to him during the recruitment process.

A Global Perspective

Simon is not alone in his international journey to WSU. With a roster that includes several international players, he is part of a growing trend in basketball, where global talent is making a significant impact. “Basketball is the second largest sport in the world,” Simon pointed out. “The recognition for international players is growing, and it’s cool to see that WSU trusts these players to come in and succeed.”

Building Relationships

During his visit, Simon had the opportunity to connect with current players, which was instrumental in easing his transition. “I met Andy, Kase, and Tomas,” he shared. “They all seemed like great guys, and it’s clear that Coach Riley focuses on building a positive team environment.” These relationships will be critical as Simon integrates into the team and begins to build chemistry with his new teammates.

Looking Ahead

As Simon prepares for his upcoming season with the Cougars, he is eager to contribute to a program that he believes has tremendous potential. “I think the team Coach Riley is building has so much potential,” he remarked. His past experiences have only fueled his motivation to succeed, and he is ready to put in the work this summer to ensure he is prepared for the challenges ahead.

Final Thoughts

Simon Hildebrandt’s journey to WSU is a testament to his dedication and passion for basketball. With a successful track record at High Point and a clear vision for his future, he is set to make a significant impact on the Cougars. As fans eagerly await the upcoming season, Simon’s story serves as a reminder of the transformative power of sports and the opportunities that come with hard work and determination.

Join the Cougar Collective today to support Simon and the entire WSU basketball program as they embark on this exciting new chapter. For all things Cougar Athletics, visit Cougfan.com!