We caught up with Anfernee Simons ahead of tonight's contest to get a few thoughts on basketball, life, and giving back to the city where he grew up. When the Magic host the Portland Trail Blazers on Jan. 23, it’ll be a homecoming for one of the league’s brightest young stars – Anfernee Simons.

Los Angeles Clippers guard Norman Powell (24) tries to get around the defense of Portland Trail Blazers guard Anfernee Simons (1) during the first half of an NBA basketball game, Thursday, Jan. 16, 2025, in Portland, Ore. (AP Photo/Jenny Kane) AP AP

The San Antonio Spurs haven’t seen the playoffs in five years, dating back to the 2018-19 season. Before then, they held the record for most consecutive playoff appearances with 22. What will it take to bring the city of San Antonio back to the postseason?

Anfernee Simons received an important injury update ahead of the Trail Blazers' game on Thursday night against the Magic.

PARIS (AP) — Victor Wembanyama scored 30 points in his first NBA game on his native French soil, Devin Vassell added 25 and the San Antonio Spurs beat the Indiana Pacers 140-110 on Thursday night.

Victor Wembanyama scored 30 points in his first NBA game on his native French soil, Devin Vassell added 25 and the San Antonio Spurs beat the Indiana Pacers, 140-110, on Thursday (Friday in Manila). Wembanyama finished with 11 rebounds,

Victor Wembanyama scored 30 points in his first NBA game on his native French soil, Devin Vassell added 25 and the San Antonio Spurs beat the Indiana Pacers 140-110 on Thursday night.

With a bit of energy from the hometown fans, Wembanyama and the Spurs took down the red-hot Indiana Pacers, 140-110. Wembanyama offered 30 points, 11 rebounds, six assists, and five blocks while hearing MVP chants from the fans.

Jan 23, 2025; Paris, FRANCE; San Antonio Spurs player Victor Wembanyama in action against the Indiana Pacers in the Paris Games 2025 NBA basketball game at Accor Arena.

Simons is expected to suit up Friday despite continuing to deal with a back issue. Simons has been scorching the nets from outside as of late, as he is converting 45.6 percent of his 9.0 three-point attempts per contest across his last 10 appearances.

Nikola Jokic had 35 points, 22 rebounds and a season-high 17 assists for his fifth straight triple-double, and the host Denver Nuggets held on to beat the Sacramento Kings 132-123 on Thursday night. Jokic,

The San Antonio Spurs play the Indiana Pacers in Paris. The teams match up Saturday for the first time this season.