Simons has the Potential to Shine in Star-Less Dunk Competition

Trail Blazers guard Anfernee Simons is positioned to make a splash on the national stage in this year’s dunk competition at the NBA All-Star Game showcase. Sunday’s high-flying competition will feature Simons, Obi Toppin and Cassius Stanley.

Earlier this week, Washington Post NBA contributor Ben Golliver detailed the dunk competition’s field of relatively unknown contestants. While acknowledging the lack of a bonafide star, Golliver was quick to make a compelling case for Simons.

The 21-year-old is 6-3, but his slight frame and incredible bounce conjure memories of Nate Robinson and Webb when he hurtles through the air. In his third season with the Trail Blazers after making the leap from IMG Academy, the 2018 first-round pick is still finding his way in a backcourt led by Damian Lillard and CJ McCollum.

Following a relatively rough 2019-20 season, Simons’ 2020-21 campaign has provided glimpses of steady improvement. He is currently averaging 8.2 points per game and he is connecting on 40 percent of his three-point attempts for the first time in his young career.

Sunday’s dunk competition is set to unfold during the halftime break of the All-Star Game. You can read the full breakdown from Golliver at the Washington Post.