Yesterday, St. Bonaventure University’s men’s basketball program secured a significant addition to its roster with the commitment of Darryl ‘Buddy’ Simmons, a 5’11” sophomore combo guard transferring from Gardner-Webb University. This was reported by Joe Tipton of On3 Sports, marking a pivotal moment for the Bonnies as they bolster their lineup with a proven scorer who averaged 17.4 points per game during the 2024-25 season.
Simmons, known for his sharpshooting and versatility, brings a dynamic skill set to a program aiming to make waves in the Atlantic 10 Conference. His move to St. Bonaventure showcases the program’s growing appeal and deepens the influence of familiar connections in recruiting. He is ready to make an immediate impact for the Bonnies in the 2025-2026 season.
A Proven Scorer with Elite Shooting Ability
Simmons, who hails from Putnam, Connecticut, was a standout performer at Gardner-Webb. As a sophomore, he scored 17.4 points on average per game, demonstrating his ability to impact the game at the mid-major level. His most impressive attribute is his shooting prowess, particularly from beyond the arc, where he connected on nearly 39% of his three-point attempts. This efficiency from deep, of course, projected him as a valuable addition for St. Bonaventure, as the team is looking to improve its offensive output.
St. Bonaventure has landed a commitment from Gardner-Webb transfer Darryl ‘Buddy’ Simmons, sources tell @On3sports.
The 5-11 sophomore combo guard averaged 17.4 points per game this season, shooting nearly 39% from three. https://t.co/wmyQoXZNvt pic.twitter.com/B3m5Xewx45
— Joe Tipton (@TiptonEdits) April 18, 2025
The Putnam Science Connection: A Key Factor in Simmons’ Decision
A critical factor in Simmons’ dedication to St. Bonaventure is his prior relationship with assistant coach Dana Valentine. He played high school basketball at Putnam Science Academy in Connecticut, where Valentine was then the head coach. Valentine joined the Bonnies’ coaching staff in May 2023. He has a track record of breeding talent, and his presence at St. Bonaventure may have, in a way, played a crucial role in Simmons’ decision to transfer.
What Simmons Brings to the Bonnies
Simmons’ arrival comes at a perfect time for St. Bonaventure, a program seeking to build on its recent successes in the Atlantic 10. The Bonnies have a history of competing at a high level, with remarkable NCAA Tournament appearances in 2018 and 2021. However, the team has faced challenges in showing consistency, and Simmons’ scoring skill could, in a way, provide the offensive spark they are looking for to get back to postseason contention.
Standing at 5’11” and 160 pounds, Simmons may not have the prototypical size for a Division I guard, but his skill set complements. His ability to stretch the floor with his shooting will create spacing for St. Bonaventure’s offense, while his quickness and playmaking allow him to run the point when it is required.
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Looking ahead, Simmons has the potential to follow in the footsteps of other Putnam Science alums who have used the team as a stepping stone to Power 5 programs.
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