Wayne Simien
Servant Shepherd Steward
About Me.
I am grateful to be on such an extraordinary journey surrounded by so many remarkable people. My faith in Jesus Christ, my relationships, the game of basketball, and my love of learning have all been essential ingredients in my growth and in whatever impact and influence I have had. I am passionate about helping the next generation see farther and go farther.
There are countless snippets across various platforms that offer glimpses into who I am, but my hope is that this website provides a more complete and holistic view of my story.
Life Timeline
1983-2001
I was born and raised in Leavenworth, Kansas, the son of Wayne Sr. and Margaret Simien, both long-time factory employees at Hallmark Cards. Growing up in a blue-collar environment instilled in me the values of hard work, respect, teamwork, and discipline. I quickly excelled in basketball, contributing to a 6A State Championship team and earning recognition as the Kansas Gatorade Player of the Year as well as a McDonald’s High School All-American.
2001-2009
As a student-athlete at the University of Kansas, I graduated with a degree in sociology in 2005. During my time at KU, I had the privilege of playing for Hall of Fame coaches Roy Williams and Bill Self, competing in two Final Fours, winning three Big 12 Championships, and earning recognition as Big 12 Player of the Year and a First Team Consensus All-American.
The most transformative part of my college experience came in 2003, when I became a Christian—a decision that reshaped my life and purpose. Shortly thereafter, I was selected in the first round of the NBA Draft by the Miami Heat and became an NBA World Champion under yet another Hall of Fame coach, Pat Riley. I concluded my professional basketball career playing in Spain.
2009-2021
For the next 13 years, I served as a Christian campus minister at the University of Kansas and on campuses throughout the Midwest. During this season, I developed a deep passion for mentorship, preaching, and speaking to a wide range of audiences including colleges, conferences, churches, businesses, and athletic programs, as well as leading mission trips.
During this time, I was also humbled to have my jersey retired in Allen Fieldhouse, an honor that allowed me to express gratitude to the many people who invested in me throughout my journey.
2021-Present
Currently, I live in Lawrence, Kansas, where I serve as the Associate Athletics Director for Strategic Engagement at the University of Kansas. In this role, I am part of the executive leadership team and support key initiatives involving fundraising, NIL, and student-athlete development.
My wife and I have been married for 20 years, and we are blessed with five children. I continue to actively preach the Gospel and serve as an elder at Morning Star Church, as well as an ambassador with the Fellowship of Christian Athletes. Some of my favorite pastimes include coaching my kids, spending time outdoors, serving on advisory boards, and providing color commentary for KU men’s and women’s basketball games.
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Teamed Up With
"I have been crucified with Christ. It is no longer I who live, but Christ who lives in me. And the life I now live in the flesh I live by faith in the Son of God, who loves me and gave Himself for me."