Simone Fontecchio is an NBA player recognized for his role as a small forward with the Detroit Pistons, having made his debut in 2022. Born into a family with a strong athletic legacy, he exhibited exceptional talent early on, becoming the Best Player Under 22 in the 2014-15 Serie A Beko season. With an impressive career average of 10.4 points and 8.3 rebounds, he continues to establish himself in professional basketball. Further insights reveal his path and achievements.
Early Life
Simone Fontecchio was born into a family with a rich athletic heritage, which greatly influenced his pursuit of a basketball career. His mother, Malì Pomilio, was a celebrated basketball player, winning two European titles with AS Vicenza, while his father, Daniele Fontecchio, was a professional hurdler who achieved multiple national championships.
Growing up in such an environment, Fontecchio developed a passion for sports from an early age. During his childhood, he was surrounded by athleticism and competitive spirit, which nurtured his talent in basketball.
He began his professional basketball career in Italy, where he played in Serie A Beko and quickly gained recognition as the Best Player Under 22 in the 2014-15 season. This accolade marked a significant milestone in his early life, setting the stage for his future endeavors in the sport.
Family Life
Simone Fontecchio comes from a deeply athletic family that has greatly influenced his career. His mother, Malì Pomilio, is a two-time European basketball champion, while his grandfather, Vittorio Pomilio, proudly represented Italy on the national basketball team.
His father, Daniele Fontecchio, achieved success as a professional hurdler and multiple national champion.
In addition to his professional pursuits, Simone welcomes fatherhood, raising his daughter Bianca.
The remarkable achievements of his family members in sports have played a vital role in shaping Simone’s development as an athlete.
Career
Simone Fontecchio made his NBA debut on October 19, 2022, and currently plays as a small forward for the Detroit Pistons.
Throughout his three-year career in the NBA, he has demonstrated his skills by averaging 10.4 points, 8.3 rebounds, and 1.2 assists per game.
Fontecchio was traded to the Pistons in February 2024 after a stint with the Utah Jazz, where he averaged 8.9 points per game.
In the 2023-24 season, he reached a career-high of 27 points in a game against the Dallas Mavericks on March 9, 2024, and has recorded four games scoring 20 points or more while with Detroit.
Net Worth
Simone Fontecchio has an estimated net worth of at least $6,250,000, primarily from his NBA contracts and international career.
His earnings include a contract valued at $8,307,692 for the 2024-25 season and $3,205,128 earned in 2023.
Throughout his career, Fontecchio has drawn notable salaries, including $3,205,128 in 2023, $3,150,000 in 2022, $1,500,000 in 2021, $1,200,000 in 2020, and $1,000,000 in 2019.
Simone Fontecchio signed a two-year contract worth $6.3 million with the Utah Jazz in July 2022 before being traded to the Pistons in February 2024.