April 8, 1999

COLUMBIA, Mo.- Tennessee state standout Jennifer Simpson has signed a letter-of-intent to play basketball at the University of Missouri, Tiger head coach Cindy Stein announced today. The 6-1 forward was an all-state performer and hails from Knoxville, Tenn.

Simpson averaged 20.7 points and 7.8 rebounds during her senior season at Bearden High School. She shot 51 percent from the field and 40 percent from three-point range. She was a 77 percent foul shooter. Simpson is the third leading scorer in Bearden history with over 1300 points.

A four year starter on the varsity level, Simpson was a two-time all-state selection and a three-time all-district pick. She was voted to play in the Tennessee East vs. West All-Star Game and will represent the state of Tennessee vs. the Georgia All-Stars in June.

Simpson led her team to a 32-4 record this past season and helped Bearden get off to a school-best 18-0 start. The Lady Bulldogs got as far as the Class AAA Sectional semifinals. Bearden High School was 101-33 in Simpson's four seasons.

"We are excited about the signing of Jennifer," said Stein. "She is an exciting player with a lot of versatility. Jennifer can handle the ball, shoot the three or post up on the block. She's a talented young lady who has the desire and work ethic academically and athletically that we look for at Mizzou."

Simpson is the second standout from the state of Tennessee to sign with Missouri. Missouri inked 6-2 post Melissa Statham from Mt. Juliet High School back in November. The Tigers have also signed 5-10 point guard Kerensa Barr from West Plains, Mo. and 6-1 forward Wannette Smith Blue Valley North High School in Overland Park, Kan.

Simpson chose the University of Missouri over Clemson, South Carolina and Wake Forest.