Anfernee Simons has been a name rising in prominence in the NBA, captivating basketball fans with his impressive skill set, scoring ability, and development as a player. As a key player for the Portland Trail Blazers, Simons has become one of the brightest young talents in the league. From his explosive performances to his ability to lead the Blazers’ offense, Simons’ stats tell the story of a player who is quickly establishing himself as a force to be reckoned with.
In this article, we’ll take an in-depth look at Anfernee Simons’ stats, explore his journey from high school to the NBA, and break down the qualities that make him a standout player in today’s competitive basketball landscape. We will also address common questions about his career, performance, and what fans are curious about, based on popular Google and YouTube searches.
Anfernee Simons’ Early Years: From High School to the NBA
Born on October 8, 1999, in Altamonte Springs, Florida, Anfernee Simons quickly made a name for himself as a basketball prodigy. Simons attended IMG Academy in Bradenton, Florida, one of the premier basketball prep schools in the United States. His time at IMG was marked by his explosive athleticism, incredible ball-handling skills, and impressive scoring ability, all of which would later define his professional career.
Despite his success at the prep level, Simons made an unconventional decision—opting to bypass college and declare for the 2018 NBA Draft straight out of high school. His decision to enter the draft was largely based on his immense potential and the belief that he was ready for the professional ranks. At just 18 years old, Simons was considered one of the best guard prospects in the draft class.
NBA Career: Drafted by the Portland Trail Blazers
Simons was selected by the Portland Trail Blazers with the 24th overall pick in the 2018 NBA Draft, a selection that would mark the beginning of his professional career. His entry into the NBA was met with high expectations, especially as a guard with such raw talent and the potential to become a dynamic scorer.
Rookie Season (2018-2019)
Simons’ rookie season was a developmental year for the young guard. As a 19-year-old, he saw limited minutes behind veterans like Damian Lillard and CJ McCollum, but when given the opportunity, he flashed glimpses of his offensive prowess.
2018-2019 Stats (Rookie Season):
Games Played: 20
Minutes Per Game: 8.8
Points Per Game (PPG): 3.8
Assists Per Game (APG): 1.0
Rebounds Per Game (RPG): 1.0
Field Goal Percentage (FG%): 37.4%
3-Point Percentage (3P%): 32.5%
While his rookie year didn’t see significant statistical output, Simons’ ability to score efficiently in limited minutes stood out. His shooting touch from deep and his speed off the dribble showed that he had the potential to be a future star in the NBA.
Anfernee Simons’ Rise: The 2020-2021 and 2021-2022 Seasons
2020-2021 Season: Taking a Bigger Role The 2020-2021 season marked a pivotal point in Simons’ career, as he saw a more significant role with the Trail Blazers. With injuries to some key players and an overall shakeup in the team’s rotation, Simons was given the opportunity to showcase his skill set.
2020-2021 Stats:
Games Played: 67
Minutes Per Game: 23.4
Points Per Game (PPG): 8.3
Assists Per Game (APG): 2.1
Rebounds Per Game (RPG): 2.0
Field Goal Percentage (FG%): 44.1%
3-Point Percentage (3P%): 40.5%
Simons’ rise was evident in the 2020-2021 season, as he improved across almost all statistical categories. His scoring average rose dramatically, and his efficiency from beyond the arc was one of the most notable improvements. The 40.5% shooting from three-point range was a testament to Simons’ growing confidence as a shooter, and it helped make him a valuable piece of the Blazers’ offense.
In addition to his shooting ability, Simons began showing his playmaking chops, registering over two assists per game. Although the Blazers struggled overall in 2020-2021, Simons’ performance gave fans hope for the future.
2021-2022 Season: Breakout Year
The 2021-2022 season was truly a breakout year for Anfernee Simons. With Damian Lillard sidelined for much of the season due to injury, Simons was thrust into the starting lineup and had the chance to fully display his talents. In Lillard’s absence, Simons stepped up as the primary scoring option for the Blazers and delivered impressive performances, proving he was ready to lead.
2021-2022 Stats:
Games Played: 57
Minutes Per Game: 34.6
Points Per Game (PPG): 17.3
Assists Per Game (APG): 3.9
Rebounds Per Game (RPG): 2.6
Field Goal Percentage (FG%): 44.1%
3-Point Percentage (3P%): 40.5%
Free Throw Percentage (FT%): 89.3%
Simons saw a massive leap in his scoring, averaging 17.3 points per game, and he proved himself to be one of the top young shooters in the league. His efficiency from beyond the arc remained impressive, and he even added more playmaking responsibility, averaging nearly four assists per game. Simons also displayed the ability to get to the line and finish at the basket, as evidenced by his 89.3% free throw shooting. Overall, the 2021-2022 season was the year Simons truly became a key player for the Trail Blazers, and many around the league began to take notice of his potential.
2022-2023 Season: Solidifying His Role with the Blazers
As the 2022-2023 season unfolded, Anfernee Simons continued to build upon his breakout year. With Damian Lillard still in the fold, Simons became an essential part of the team’s backcourt, pairing with Lillard to form one of the more potent guard duos in the NBA.
2022-2023 Stats (Partial Season):
Games Played: 42
Minutes Per Game: 35.2
Points Per Game (PPG): 22.0
Assists Per Game (APG): 5.1
Rebounds Per Game (RPG): 3.1
Field Goal Percentage (FG%): 44.6%
3-Point Percentage (3P%): 38.7%
Free Throw Percentage (FT%): 89.5%
Simons’ growth continued, and he posted career-high averages in both points and assists. He became a primary offensive weapon for the Blazers and showcased his playmaking ability alongside his scoring. His shooting from deep remained a standout aspect of his game, and he also continued to show efficiency at the free-throw line.
Anfernee Simons’ Playing Style: Strengths and Skills
Scoring and Shooting Ability: Simons’ primary strength lies in his scoring ability, particularly as a three-point shooter. His 40.5% shooting from beyond the arc over the past two seasons demonstrates that he has the ability to stretch the floor and become a key offensive weapon for the Trail Blazers. His smooth shooting stroke and ability to create his own shot off the dribble make him a dangerous scorer in a variety of situations.
Playmaking and Court Vision: While Simons is primarily known for his scoring, he has also made significant strides as a playmaker. Over the past two seasons, his assist numbers have increased, and he’s shown that he can create opportunities for his teammates. His court vision and ability to break down defenses have made him a more complete guard.
Athleticism and Finishing Ability: Simons is an explosive athlete, capable of finishing at the rim and getting to the basket. His quick first step and ability to blow by defenders make him a threat in transition, and his craftiness allows him to finish through contact or with finesse at the basket.
The Future is Bright for Anfernee Simons
Anfernee Simons’ statistical progression is a testament to his work ethic, talent, and commitment to improvement. From a raw, untested rookie to a legitimate scoring threat and starting guard in the NBA, Simons has shown tremendous growth in just a few seasons.
As the Portland Trail Blazers look to build a competitive team, Simons’ presence in the backcourt will be pivotal. With continued development, there’s little doubt that he has the potential to become one of the premier guards in the league. His stats not only reflect his current value to the team but also point to a very promising future. Whether you’re a die-hard Blazers fan, a fantasy basketball enthusiast, or simply a lover of the game, Anfernee Simons is a player to watch closely in the seasons to come.
FAQs
What is Anfernee Simons’ role on the Portland Trail Blazers?
Simons is primarily a shooting guard, though he has also played point guard for stretches. His role as a high-volume scorer and floor spacer is critical for the Blazers, especially with Damian Lillard’s departure. Simons has also taken on a larger ball-handling and playmaking role, developing into one of the team’s core offensive players.
Can Anfernee Simons lead the Portland Trail Blazers?
While Anfernee Simons has shown flashes of star potential, it remains to be seen whether he can fully lead the Blazers, especially without another superstar like Damian Lillard on the roster. His offensive game is certainly suited for a leading role, but it will depend on his ability to expand his playmaking and defensive skills.
Where can I watch Anfernee Simons’ highlights?
You can find Anfernee Simons’ highlights on YouTube, NBA League Pass, and various sports news platforms like ESPN, Bleacher Report, and the official NBA website. These highlight reels showcase his impressive shooting range, scoring bursts, and athletic plays.
How does Anfernee Simons compare to other young guards in the NBA?
Simons is considered one of the top young guards in the NBA. His scoring ability rivals that of players like Jordan Poole and Tyler Herro, with many analysts seeing him as a potential future star if he continues to develop his game, particularly on the defensive end.
What is Anfernee Simons’ 3-point shooting percentage?
Simons is known for his three-point shooting ability. Throughout his career, he has averaged a 38.5% shooting percentage from three-point range, with his best season (2022-2023) boasting a 39.7% mark from beyond the arc. His ability to stretch the floor has been key to his role in the Blazers’ offense.
In Summary
Anfernee Simons has steadily emerged as one of the NBA’s most exciting young guards, showcasing elite shooting, explosive scoring, and untapped potential as a team leader. While he continues to refine areas like defense and playmaking, his trajectory points toward stardom especially if he remains a central piece of the Portland Trail Blazers’ rebuild. With standout performances, clutch shooting, and growing responsibilities, Simons is a player to watch closely in the coming seasons. Whether you’re a Blazers fan or an NBA enthusiast, keeping tabs on Anfernee Simons’ stats is a must for understanding the future of the league’s rising stars.
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