The man is simply a legend.
Women’s basketball coach Sandy Simpson has led arguably the most successful program on the UC Davis campus for the last 14 years, and for that he will undoubtedly go down as one of the greatest coaches in Aggie history.
During his tenure, Simpson helped the women’s basketball team as it transitioned from division II to division I, and did so without missing a beat.
In four years as a division I coach, Simpson led UC Davis to three appearances in the Big West Conference Championship game. For his efforts he received the Big West Coach of the Year Award twice during that stretch.
Prior to the 2010-11 season, Simpson announced that this year would be his last at the helm. His final campaign was one he will never forget.
Simpson led the Aggies to a Big West title and the team’s first-ever appearance in the NCAA Tournament.
Simpson posted a career record of 227-153 – 137-69 in conference play. He is the winningest coach in school history.
Still, Simpson was about more than winning- he was about building a bond with his players.
“I feel so blessed that I got to play for [Simpson],” said senior Paige Mintun. “We played hard for him. I wouldn’t want to play for anyone else.”
Simpson’s impact on the UC Davis women’s basketball program will be felt for years to come.
“[The Aggies] are going to miss him,” said legendary Stanford coach Tara VanDerveer. “He did a great job at Davis.”
– Trevor Cramer
