Anfernee Simons receives Bill Walton Community Impact Award 2025
The Bill Walton Community Impact Award honors the remarkable legacy of Bill Walton, celebrating individuals who have made significant contributions to their communities through leadership, dedication, and service. Named after the legendary basketball player and sportscaster, whose influence extends far beyond the court, this award recognizes those who embody Bill Walton’s spirit of excellence, perseverance, and community engagement.
We are honored to name Anfernee Simons as the recipient of the 2025 Bill Walton Community Impact Award.
Anfernee Simons
Anfernee Simons is a dynamic scoring guard who has made a powerful impact both on the court and in the community. Selected 24th overall by the Portland Trail Blazers in the 2018 NBA Draft, Simons went on to make 967 three-pointers during his time with the team—ranking third all-time in franchise history. In 2021, he captured national attention by winning the NBA Slam Dunk Contest, showcasing his elite athleticism and creativity. That same spirit of excellence extended beyond the game when he was named the Trail Blazers’ Maurice Lucas Award winner for the 2021–2022 season, in recognition of his outstanding contributions through his Be A Light Foundation.
In March 2025, the NBA further recognized Simons’ dedication to service by honoring him with the Bob Lanier Community Assist Award, donating $10,000 to Be A Light Foundation and awarding him the David Robinson trophy for his community service in mental health education. His foundation has led efforts such as holiday giveaways and meal distributions for nearly 300 families, and a partnership with Nike to host design workshops that provided youth with custom sneakers and meals.
Simons has been a dedicated supporter of the Maurice Lucas Foundation, actively collaborating to advocate for the students and families we serve. Through his commitment of time, energy, and resources, Simons continues to lead with purpose, using his platform to create lasting change and inspiring others to do the same.
Past Recipients of the Bill Walton Community Impact Award
- Damian Lillard - 2024
About the Maurice Lucas Foundation
The Foundation is named in honor of the late Maurice Lucas (1952-2010), the leading scorer on the 1977 NBA champion Trail Blazers team. Besides his outstanding achievements on the court, Lucas also selflessly gave his time and energy to Portland youth. Since its formation in 2010, the Maurice Lucas Foundation has served thousands of students and families through its Academy program, basketball camps and teams.