Anfernee Simons is gearing up for a crucial matchup against CJ McCollum and the Washington Wizards. This game provides Simons an opportunity to showcase his growth as an NBA player.
Anfernee Simons: Career Background
Simons, currently a guard for the Boston Celtics, took a unique path in his basketball journey. Instead of going straight to college, he opted for a postgraduate year at IMG Academy in Florida. This decision allowed him to train rigorously while flying under the radar.
NBA Draft and Portland Trail Blazers
His hard work paid off when he was selected 24th overall by the Portland Trail Blazers in the 2018 NBA Draft. In Portland, he was fortunate to learn from veteran players, including Damian Lillard and McCollum.
Mentorship from CJ McCollum
As Simons prepares for the upcoming game at TD Garden, he reflects on the mentorship he received from McCollum. He appreciates the insights McCollum shared regarding balancing playstyles and navigating defenses.
- Simons values McCollum’s ability to maneuver through defenses.
- He credits McCollum for teaching him how to get to optimal scoring spots.
- Simons has adopted McCollum’s crafty style around the rim.
Personal Growth and Competition
At 26, Simons feels he’s a more mature player than he was two years ago when he last played alongside McCollum. The prospect of competing against his former teammate excites him.
“When you were a young player, and you felt like he was getting the best of you, it’s good competition to have now,” he noted. Simons emphasizes the camaraderie and friendly rivalry they share when facing each other on the court.
Looking Ahead
The upcoming game against the Wizards is more than just a matchup; it demonstrates Simons’ evolution as a player. With McCollum now representing the Washington Wizards, fans can expect an intense battle that highlights personal growth alongside athletic competition.
