Tae Simmons is embracing the responsibility of upholding San Diego State’s standard

San Diego State basketball has built its identity on defense, toughness, and a willingness to do whatever it takes to win. Those qualities have been present throughout the program’s history, and sophomore Tae Simmons is doing his part to make sure they remain at the forefront.

Simmons put those traits on display Tuesday night in the Aztecs’ season opener, recording his first career double-double. The sophomore finished with 14 points, 11 rebounds, and two steals while grabbing five offensive rebounds and drawing four fouls.

“It was about time. This is the first [double-double] of my career,” Simmons said after the Cal State Fullerton win. “Coach Dutcher recruited a rebounder. I’m glad I was finally able to get that double-double. I plan to keep doing that. I feel like it’s just kind of getting to know how my teammates shoot the ball and just reacting a little bit quicker and maybe wedging them out a little bit more. I just try to be way more physical. I just try to do that the entire game.”

It was an impressive performance, but the numbers only tell part of the story. Simmons impacts the game in ways that don’t always show up in the box score. Whether he is fighting for an offensive rebound, setting a screen, creating a defensive stop, or using his strength to finish around the basket, he finds ways to make his presence felt.

That is exactly what San Diego State needs from him.

Simmons represents everything San Diego State wants to be

There is no question Simmons is one of the more physical players on the court whenever he steps onto the floor. His strength allows him to compete against bigger opponents, while his defensive instincts make him an important piece of the Aztecs’ identity.

San Diego State has traditionally relied on players who embrace the less glamorous parts of basketball. Defense, rebounding, and hustle have helped define the program, and Simmons appears to understand the responsibility that comes with wearing an Aztec uniform.

Throw it down, @TaeSimmons15!#GoAztecs pic.twitter.com/7xIfiNxKH3

— San Diego State Men's Basketball (@Aztec_MBB) November 4, 2026

He is also an emotional player who isn’t afraid to express himself. Simmons plays with passion, brings energy to his teammates, and isn’t someone who will hesitate to stand up for the people around him.

That type of personality can be valuable for a team trying to establish its identity. Talent matters, but having players who are willing to compete on every possession can make a difference over the course of a long season.

Simmons and Harrington are the leaders

Simmons isn’t the only player who will have a responsibility in shaping this team’s identity. Elzie Harrington is another important returning piece, while Latrell Davis and Jeremiah Cherry can also lead in multiple ways.

However, Simmons and Harrington have a unique opportunity because they experienced what it takes to play for San Diego State last season. They understand the expectations and can help the Europeans and younger teammates adjust to the demands of the program.

For Simmons, that leadership doesn’t necessarily have to come through scoring. He might not be the player San Diego State turns to when it needs someone to create a bucket in the final seconds, but that doesn’t make his contributions any less valuable. Sometimes, winning basketball comes down to setting the right screen, fighting for an offensive rebound, forcing a turnover or making a defensive play when the team needs it most. Simmons can provide all of those things.

“When [Tae Simmons] goes to the glass like that, he’s tough to deal with,” Dutcher said after the Fullerton win. “His offensive rebounding was a big part of the game. He did a really good job attacking the glass, and he’s got strength and quickness, so he’s hard to guard. He has to continue to pursue that ball and try to make this the norm. Eight rebounds a game, nine rebounds a game, then we’ll be a really good team.”

His first career double-double was an encouraging way to begin his sophomore season, but his value to the Aztecs extends well beyond his individual statistics.

San Diego State needs players who understand what the program represents. Simmons is showing that he is willing to embrace that responsibility, and if Tuesday night’s performance is any indication, he could become one of the most important pieces of the Aztecs’ season.

Chris Spiering

Chris is a graduate of the University of San Diego. He is the former Sports Editor for the USDVista newspaper. Chris has covered the San Diego Loyal, and now covers San Diego State Men’s Basketball. He also contributes regularly about the Padres. Chris is an athlete and is a huge fan of San Diego sports.