Finding His Voice: DeJuan Wheat's Transformative Journey as Simmons College's New Head Coach
Imagine stepping into a role where your words carry the weight of leadership, strategy, and inspiration—all while navigating the pressures of collegiate athletics. This is the reality for DeJuan Wheat, the newly appointed head coach at Simmons College of Kentucky, who is discovering that his greatest challenge isn’t just drawing up plays, but speaking up in a way that commands attention and respect. But here’s where it gets intriguing: Wheat’s journey isn’t just about coaching basketball; it’s about evolving from a reserved assistant into a vocal leader who’s reshaping lives both on and off the court.
As an assistant coach at IU Southeast, Wheat had the luxury of letting head coach Wiley Brown take the lead in conversations and decision-making. Now, as the head coach, he’s the one whose voice echoes in team huddles, university events, and fan interactions. And this is the part most people miss: Wheat’s transformation isn’t just professional—it’s deeply personal. “I’ve never been the most sociable person,” he admits, “but as I’ve grown older, I’ve come out of my shell. Being a head coach accelerates that process. It’s demanding, but I’ve prepared for this moment for a long time.”
What’s truly fascinating is how Wheat’s coaching philosophy is a mosaic of the mentors who shaped him. From his high school coach, Scotty Davenport, to legends like Denny Crum and Flip Saunders, Wheat has internalized their wisdom and blended it with his unique style. “I’ve taken bits and pieces from every coach I’ve played for or worked with,” he explains. “It’s not just about my voice—it’s about channeling theirs through my own lens.”
Taking over a team he’d coached against the previous season, Wheat spent the offseason dissecting game footage and familiarizing himself with his roster. Assisted by former Louisville standout Jason Osborne, Wheat’s approach is rooted in trust and opportunity. “I asked the players to trust the process and trust me,” he says. “Half of our 16 players didn’t even play basketball last season. For me, it’s about giving them a chance to pursue their dreams while prioritizing education. Basketball is important, but without a degree, I wouldn’t be here today.”
But here’s where it gets controversial: Wheat’s focus extends far beyond the court. Players like Jonathan “B.J.” Johnson, a 6-foot-4 versatile athlete from Marion, Ark., credit Wheat for being more than a coach. “He’s like a breath of fresh air,” Johnson says. “He doesn’t just treat us as players; he teaches us how to carry ourselves as men. He makes us think about life after basketball—who we are outside of this game. That’s what sets him apart.”
Senior point guard Gavin Withrow, a Male High School graduate who returned to the game after a COVID-induced hiatus, echoes this sentiment. “Coach Wheat has a guard’s mindset, and that’s made all the difference,” Withrow explains. “We have deep conversations about what we see on the court. When he speaks, I listen—because he’s been there, done that. He’s not just a coach; he’s a mentor.”
When asked about the team’s strengths, Withrow highlights their relentless defensive pressure and transition offense. “We can run on anybody,” he says confidently. “Full-court defense, 94 feet of pressure—we make teams uncomfortable and capitalize in transition.”
Wheat’s early-season schedule is no walk in the park. With matchups against higher-tier teams like the College of the Cumberlands, IU Southeast, and Kentucky Wesleyan, he’s embracing the challenge. “Coach Crum always said, ‘Play the tough games early,’” Wheat reflects. “You might take some losses, but those are your greatest teachers. It’s about learning, adapting, and preparing for what’s next.”
Now, here’s a thought-provoking question for you: In an era where winning often overshadows development, is Wheat’s holistic approach to coaching a blueprint for the future, or a risky strategy in the win-at-all-costs world of college sports? Share your thoughts in the comments—let’s spark a conversation!
Quick Sips
- California Dreamin’: Louisville volleyball stunned the ACC with a dominant west coast swing, including a four-set upset over No. 4 Stanford. Their momentum is undeniable—read more about their triumph here.
- Self-Inflicted Wounds: Louisville football enters its bye week at 4-1, but self-made mistakes loom large ahead of their showdown with No. 2 Miami. Dive into the analysis here.
The Last Drop
“You guys can write and say what you want about me, but I told you, there is zero chance I'm walking away. You know what I mean? Zero. There is no quit in me.”
– Kentucky football coach Mark Stoops, addressing rumors of an exit strategy after the Wildcats’ loss to Georgia.
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