After all, Simons is not only the lone preps-to-pros prospect in a loaded draft class — he played for Florida-based IMG, graduating last year — he’s the first American-born player to go directly from high school to the draft since the NBA implemented age restriction rules in 2005.
But, Simons, a smooth shooting guard out of Orlando Fla., has always been prepared to think and dream big. He was named after Anfernee Hardaway because his parents were fans of the Orlando Magic. He was rated as a five-star recruit and originally committed to Louisville. He is friends with star Jazz guard Donovan Mitchell, and attended at least one Jazz game this past season.