Anfernee Simons is a rising NBA star with elite shooting, explosive scoring, and growing leadership. A key figure in Portland’s rebuild, he’s poised for stardom. Learn about his journey, strengths, and future potential in this in-depth profile on one of basketball’s most promising young guards
Anfernee Simons: Rising NBA Star with Elite Scoring Potential
Anfernee Simons, the dynamic shooting guard for the Portland Trail Blazers, has quickly become one of the NBA’s most intriguing young talents. Known for his explosive scoring ability, smooth shooting stroke, and ever-improving playmaking skills, Simons has positioned himself as a future All-Star candidate in a league full of rising stars. Born on June 8, 1999, in Altamonte Springs, Florida, Simons’ basketball journey is anything but conventional — and that uniqueness has helped shape his game and mindset in ways few players can relate to.
An Unusual Path to the NBA
Unlike most NBA players, Anfernee Simons bypassed college basketball entirely. Instead, he spent a postgraduate year at IMG Academy before declaring for the 2018 NBA Draft. This bold move came after a standout high school career and a clear indication of his NBA-level talent. The Portland Trail Blazers selected him with the 24th overall pick, betting on his raw athleticism, smooth jumper, and long-term upside.
That decision has since paid off. Though Simons saw limited action in his rookie and sophomore seasons, the Trail Blazers invested time in developing his skills and giving him more responsibility with each passing year. By the 2021–22 season, Simons broke out as one of the league’s premier young scorers.
Breakout Performances and Rising Value
In the 2021–22 season, Simons took full advantage of increased playing time due to injuries to star guards Damian Lillard and CJ McCollum. He averaged over 17 points per game while shooting above 40% from three-point range, showcasing his elite shooting mechanics and improved decision-making. His ability to score in bunches — including several 30-point and 40-point outings — turned heads around the league.
Simons isn’t just a shooter. He’s developed into a well-rounded offensive player who can create off the dribble, finish at the rim, and facilitate for teammates. His improvement as a passer has made him a reliable secondary ball-handler — a critical role in today’s pace-and-space NBA.
A Core Piece for the Blazers’ Future
With CJ McCollum traded and Damian Lillard eventually moving on in 2023, the Trail Blazers committed to a new era built around youth. Anfernee Simons, alongside young phenoms like Scoot Henderson and Shaedon Sharpe, is central to Portland’s rebuild. The team sees Simons not just as a supporting piece, but as a potential franchise cornerstone.
Portland rewarded Simons with a four-year, $100 million contract extension, a clear signal of their belief in his future. While he may not be the face of the franchise just yet, his consistent improvement suggests he’s not far off.
Strengths and Areas of Growth
Strengths:
- Elite Shooting: Simons ranks among the top shooters in the league from deep, especially on pull-up and catch-and-shoot attempts.
- Athleticism: His quick first step and vertical leap allow him to attack defenders and finish with flair.
- Scoring Versatility: Whether it’s mid-range, three-pointers, or drives to the hoop, Simons can score from all levels.
Areas to Improve:
- Defense: Like many young guards, Simons is still working on becoming a consistent defender, especially off-ball.
- Leadership and Consistency: As he assumes a larger role, the next step is becoming a nightly leader on and off the court.
Future Outlook
Anfernee Simons is entering the prime of his career with a skill set perfectly suited for the modern NBA. If he continues on his current trajectory, it’s only a matter of time before he earns his first All-Star selection. With his shooting, scoring, and evolving leadership, Simons is poised to be a major part of Portland’s resurgence.
As fans and analysts look ahead to the next generation of NBA stars, Anfernee Simons stands out as a player to watch — a symbol of potential realized and still rising.