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Simone Sawyer's legacy at Penn blends basketball brilliance with mental health advocacy

From clutch performances on the court to championing wellness off it, Sawyer's journey redefines student-athlete leadership. Her next chapter? A master's in mental health.

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Simone Sawyer's legacy at Penn blends basketball brilliance with mental health advocacy

Simone Sawyer, a fourth-year guard at the University of Pennsylvania, has left her mark both on and off the basketball court. Known for her sharp shooting and leadership, she recently wrapped up her final season with a standout performance. Beyond sports, Sawyer has also focused on mental health advocacy through her own initiative, Mo Mind Matters.

Sawyer's final game was one to remember. She scored 17 points, grabbed 7 rebounds, and added 3 assists and 4 steals in a 69-56 victory over Brown. Throughout the season, she ranked third on the team in minutes, scoring, and rebounding, while placing second in steals. Her shooting stats were equally impressive: 43% from the field, 34% from three-point range, and 88% from the foul line—the highest free throw percentage in the Ivy League and 21st nationally.

Her growth as a player has been notable, particularly in managing her speed and refining her shooting. Among her career highlights, she cites her best individual performance at Dartmouth and her most memorable team win against Columbia. Off the court, Sawyer founded *Mo Mind Matters* in 2022 to promote mental, emotional, and physical wellness, with a focus on underrepresented groups. As a team captain, she supports her teammates socially and emotionally, valuing the friendships formed through basketball. She also enjoys the travel opportunities that come with the sport. Looking ahead, Sawyer plans to apply to Penn's graduate school for a master's in mental health and counselling. Her goal is to work in a mental health facility or care unit after graduation. Among her favourite spots on campus is Huntsman Hall, which she admires for its architecture.

Sawyer's contributions extend beyond statistics. She has balanced athletic success with advocacy, leaving a lasting impact at Penn. Her future in mental health work will build on the foundation she has already established through Mo Mind Matters and her studies.

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