Career Timeline of Anfernee Simons: Major Achievements and Milestones

How Anfernee Simons built a successful career. Explore key moments that defined the journey.

Anfernee Simons is an American professional basketball player currently playing for the Portland Trail Blazers in the NBA. Notably, he was the first American player since 2005 to be drafted into the NBA directly after graduating high school, bypassing the typical college basketball route. He prepped at IMG Academy before entering the NBA draft.

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Full Timeline Career & Achievements

2015: Third High School Player Drafted Since 2015

Anfernee Simons was the third high school player since 2015 to be drafted into the NBA.

January 2018: Considered Bypassing College

In January 2018, Anfernee Simons announced that he was "most likely" going to bypass college and enter the 2018 NBA draft.

March 2018: Confirmed NBA Draft Decision

In March 2018, Anfernee Simons confirmed his decision to enter the 2018 NBA draft and withdrew from the Nike Hoop Summit and Jordan Brand Classic.

March 20, 2018: Ranked 19th Best Prospect

On March 20, 2018, ESPN ranked Anfernee Simons as the 19th-best prospect in the upcoming NBA draft.

July 2, 2018: Signed with Portland Trail Blazers

On July 2, 2018, the Portland Trail Blazers announced that they had signed Anfernee Simons.

January 21, 2019: Assigned to Agua Caliente Clippers

On January 21, 2019, Anfernee Simons was assigned to the Agua Caliente Clippers for an NBA G League assignment.

April 10, 2019: First Career Start

On April 10, 2019, Anfernee Simons had his first career start against the Sacramento Kings. He scored 37 points, 6 rebounds, and 9 assists, becoming the first Trail Blazers rookie since Lillard to score 30-plus points.

2021: NBA Slam Dunk Champion

In 2021, Anfernee Simons was named the 2021 NBA Slam Dunk Champion, despite failing to kiss the rim during his final dunk attempt.

January 3, 2022: Career-High 43 Points

On January 3, 2022, Anfernee Simons scored a then career-high 43 points with nine three-pointers in a win over the Atlanta Hawks, dedicating the game to his grandfather.