Anfernee Simons, the Boston Celtics guard, has shared how fellow player CJ McCollum significantly influenced his development in the NBA. Simons’ career did not follow the conventional path; after high school, he opted for a postgraduate year at IMG Academy in Florida instead of attending college. This decision added an element of mystery to his talents and played a role in his selection as the 24th pick by the Portland Trail Blazers in the 2018 NBA Draft.
Anfernee Simons and CJ McCollum: A Mentor-Mentee Relationship
During his time with the Trail Blazers, Simons was fortunate to play alongside elite mentors, including Damian Lillard and CJ McCollum. As Simons prepares for a match against McCollum’s current team, the Washington Wizards, he reflects on the lessons learned from McCollum that helped shape his playing style.
Importance of Balance in Game Development
Simons credits McCollum for teaching him the balance necessary to improve as a player. He noted how McCollum’s unique playing style, characterized by a crafty approach and skillful movements, greatly influenced him. “CJ is a big part of my development, especially as a young player,” Simons said. He emphasized McCollum’s ability to navigate the court seamlessly, despite not always being the most athletic player.
- Simons learned to be effective even when not the fastest on the court.
- The skills and tactics acquired from McCollum have been pivotal in Simons’ growth.
Excitement for the Upcoming Matchup
As a now seasoned player at 26, Simons looks forward to showcasing his growth against McCollum. Their previous encounters, when Simons was only 22, left a strong impression on him. He expressed his enthusiasm about this matchup, noting how competitive and enjoyable it is to face someone who played a key role in his development.
“When you were a young player, and you felt like he was getting the best of you, it was a great learning experience,” Simons explained. “Now, as a more mature player, it’s exciting to compete with him again.”
This exciting reunion on the court serves not only as a chance for healthy competition, but also as a testament to the growth that comes from mentorship and the influence of seasoned players like CJ McCollum in the NBA.
