Gwanyanya, a 6'1" guard from Fremont California, played both his High School and Junior College basketball near his home. As a senior at Washington High School in Fremont, Simba averaged 16.4 points, 8 rebounds and 5 assists per contest. He was honored as an Argus Newspaper Player of the Week, as well as being named to the Mission Valley All-Conference Team in 2007. More honors would come following his senior season for the Huskies, as Gwanyanya was selected to play on the County All Star Team. Again Simba would shine, pouring in 61 points in two games (35 and 26) for the All Stars. The 61 points were only four points from tying the all time record for the two game event.

He would not venture far to play his Junior College basketball, choosing to head down the road and lace them up for the Renegades of Ohlone College. While at Ohlone, he was a member of teams that spent time holding the states #1 ranking. He helped guide the Renegades to a 24-5 overall record, a Coast Conference Championship and a berth in the State Tournament this past season.

"Simba is a great fit for the HNU community and our Men's Basketball program." Said Head Coach Dennis Jones. "He is a gifted Athlete, a very good perimeter defender and will bring it every day at practice."