Explore the journey, stats, and rising career of Anfernee Simons in the NBA. Learn about his early life, breakout seasons, and what makes him one of the most exciting young guards for the Portland Trail Blazers.
Who is Anfernee Simons?
Anfernee Simons is an American professional basketball player currently playing for the Portland Trail Blazers in the NBA. Known for his exceptional shooting skills, athleticism, and scoring ability, Simons has quickly risen through the ranks to become a key piece in Portland’s rebuilding efforts.
Early Life and Background
Childhood and High School
- Born on June 8, 1999, in Altamonte Springs, Florida.
- Attended Edgewater High School in Orlando, Florida.
- Later transferred to IMG Academy to enhance his development.
- Named after NBA legend Anfernee “Penny” Hardaway, who would also become one of his mentors.
Skip to the NBA
Simons made headlines by bypassing college and entering the NBA Draft directly from IMG Academy, becoming one of the few players to do so since 2005 when the NBA raised the minimum draft age.
NBA Career Overview
Draft and Rookie Season
- Drafted 24th overall in the 2018 NBA Draft by the Portland Trail Blazers.
- Spent much of his rookie season developing behind Damian Lillard and CJ McCollum.
- Showed flashes of potential in limited minutes.
Breakout and Development
Simons’ breakout came in the 2021–2022 season, where he averaged over 17 points per game, filling in for injured starters. He showcased:
- Deep three-point range
- Improved ball-handling
- Ability to run the offense
- Highlight dunks and quick first step
Playing Style and Strengths
Scoring Ability
Simons excels as a scorer from all three levels:
- Strong three-point shooter (over 38% from deep in 2023–2024 season)
- Confident mid-range jumper
- Creative finisher at the rim
Athleticism and Agility
He has explosive verticals and quickness, often making highlight-reel plays. His agility allows him to create space off the dribble and navigate through tight defenses.
Role in Portland Trail Blazers
As Portland transitions into a new era post-Damian Lillard, Simons is seen as:
- A cornerstone player alongside Scoot Henderson and Shaedon Sharpe
- Capable of leading the team in scoring
- Developing into a two-way guard
Stats and Achievements (As of 2024 Season)
| Season | Games Played | PPG | APG | RPG | FG% | 3P% |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2020–2021 | 64 | 7.8 | 1.4 | 2.2 | 42.6% | 42.6% |
| 2021–2022 | 57 | 17.3 | 3.9 | 2.6 | 44.3% | 40.5% |
| 2022–2023 | 62 | 21.1 | 4.1 | 2.6 | 45.0% | 37.7% |
| 2023–2024 | 62 | 22.3 | 5.5 | 3.2 | 46.2% | 38.8% |
Off-Court Personality
- Humble and media-shy compared to many of his peers.
- Focuses on continuous improvement and team play.
- Actively involved in community events in Portland and his hometown.
Future Potential
Many analysts project Anfernee Simons to become a future NBA All-Star if he continues improving his:
- Defensive consistency
- Leadership on the floor
- Physical strength
If Portland continues its youth-oriented rebuild, Simons will likely be the face of the franchise for years to come.
FAQs About Anfernee Simons
Who is Anfernee Simons?
Anfernee Simons is a professional basketball player for the Portland Trail Blazers in the NBA.
When was Anfernee Simons drafted?
He was drafted in the first round, 24th overall, by the Portland Trail Blazers in the 2018 NBA Draft.
What position does Anfernee Simons play?
Simons primarily plays as a shooting guard but can also handle point guard duties.
Where did Anfernee Simons go to college?
He did not attend college and entered the NBA directly from IMG Academy.
How tall is Anfernee Simons?
He is 6 feet 3 inches (1.91 meters) tall.
What is Anfernee Simons known for?
He is known for his shooting ability, athleticism, and potential as a leading scorer.
Is Anfernee Simons a good three-point shooter?
Yes, he has consistently shot above 37% from beyond the arc in recent seasons.
Has Anfernee Simons won any NBA awards?
As of 2024, he hasn’t won any major individual NBA awards but is recognized as one of the league’s most improved players.
What number does Anfernee Simons wear?
He wears jersey number 1 for the Portland Trail Blazers.
What is Anfernee Simons’ contract with the Blazers?
He signed a 4-year, $100 million deal with Portland in 2022.
Can Anfernee Simons become an NBA All-Star?
Yes, many analysts believe he has the talent and trajectory to become an All-Star in the near future.
What is his current role in Portland?
Simons is seen as a franchise cornerstone and is one of the leading scorers on the team.
Official Sources for Further Information:
| Jrue Holiday Career Highlights | NBA Champion & Defensive Star – NayaPK.blog | Jrue Holiday Career Highlights | NBA Champion & Defensive Star – NayaPK.blog |
|---|
| Mark Daigneault Biography | Oklahoma City Thunder Coach – Career, Achievements & Strategy | Mark Daigneault Biography | Oklahoma City Thunder Coach – Career, Achievements & Strategy |
|---|
| Andrew Nembhard Biography | Rising NBA Star with Elite Playmaking Skills – NayaPK.blog | Andrew Nembhard Biography | Rising NBA Star with Elite Playmaking Skills – NayaPK.blog |
|---|
| Mexico Travel Guide | Culture and Tourism in Mexico – NayaPK.blog | Mexico Travel Guide | Culture and Tourism in Mexico – NayaPK.blog |
|---|
NBA Power Rankings 2025 | Basketball Season Analysis for U.S. Fans – NayaPK.blog | NBA Power Rankings 2025 | Basketball Season Analysis for U.S. Fans – NayaPK.blog |
|---|
| Tyrese Haliburton Career Highlights | NBA All-Star Rise – NayaPK.blog | Tyrese Haliburton Career Highlights | NBA All-Star Rise – NayaPK.blog |
|---|
| Pacers vs Thunder | NBA Game Analysis and Key Moments – NayaPK.blog | Pacers vs Thunder | NBA Game Analysis and Key Moments – NayaPK.blog |
|---|
| Sleeper Cells in the U.S. | Domestic Terror Threats and Covert Networks Explained | Sleeper Cells in the U.S. | Domestic Terror Threats and Covert Networks Explained |
|---|
Iranian Conflict Timeline | Middle East Tensions Explained – NayaPK.blog | Iranian Conflict Timeline | Middle East Tensions Explained – NayaPK.blog |
|---|
| Netanyahu’s Political Strategy | Israel’s Leadership Crisis – A Deep Dive for U.S. Readers | Netanyahu’s Political Strategy | Israel’s Leadership Crisis – A Deep Dive for U.S. Readers |
|---|