Simone Fontecchio has become one of the most notable Italian players in the NBA, making a name for himself with his sharp shooting and relentless work ethic. He is a key player for the Detroit Pistons, known for his journey from Italy’s top leagues to the world’s biggest basketball stage. Fontecchio’s story is one of perseverance, family legacy, and international success, inspiring both fans in his home country and basketball enthusiasts worldwide.
Simone Fontecchio’s Biography
| Detail | Information |
|---|---|
| Full Name | Simone Fontecchio |
| Date of Birth | December 9, 1995 |
| Age | 29 |
| Education | No college; developed in Virtus Bologna youth system |
| Nationality | Italian |
| Height | 6 ft 7 in (2.01 m) |
| Weight | 209 lbs (95 kg) |
| Turned Pro | 2012 |
| Net Worth | $10-12 million (2025 estimate) |
| Salary/Career Earnings | $13,942,308 |
| Wife/Girlfriend | Girlfriend: Rosa; one daughter |
| Instagram Profile | N/A |
| Twitter Profile | N/A |
Early Career
Simone Fontecchio was born in Pescara, Italy, into a family deeply rooted in sports. His mother, Malì Pomilio, was a standout basketball player for Italy and led her club to European championships, while his father, Daniele Fontecchio, was a decorated track and field athlete who competed in the 1984 Olympics.
Simone’s older brother, Luca, also played basketball, and his grandfather represented Italy’s national team in the late 1950s. Growing up in such an environment, Simone was surrounded by athletic excellence from a young age.
At 14, Simone moved to Bologna to join the Virtus Bologna youth program, a decision that would shape his basketball future. He lived with other young players, dedicating himself to the sport and quickly rising through the ranks.
By the 2011-12 season, he had already made a mark in youth tournaments, winning Italian Under-17 and Under-19 championships. He also participated in prestigious international events like the Jordan Brand Classic and the Euroleague Basketball Next Generation Tournament, signaling his potential on a broader stage.
Fontecchio’s professional debut came in 2012, at just 17 years old, when Virtus Bologna promoted him to their senior team. Despite the club’s struggles at the time, including a lack of success and eventual relegation, Simone found valuable playing time.
His development was rapid; by his third season, he was named the Best Player Under 22 in the Italian league, joining the ranks of other Italian NBA talents who had won the award before him.
Professional Career
Simone Fontecchio’s professional journey is a testament to perseverance and adaptability. After leaving Virtus Bologna, he joined Olimpia Milano in 2016, where he faced stiff competition for playing time. Although he didn’t see much action in the EuroLeague, he was part of a team that won three consecutive Italian Super Cups, adding to his growing list of achievements.
Seeking more playing time and a bigger role, Fontecchio spent a season on loan at Vanoli Cremona before moving to Reggio Emilia (Reggiana) in 2019. At Reggiana, he enjoyed a breakout season, averaging over 11 points and 4 rebounds per game. This performance caught the attention of teams outside Italy, and in 2020, he made a significant move to ALBA Berlin in Germany’s Bundesliga.
Under the guidance of veteran coach Aito Garcia Reneses, Simone flourished in Berlin. He averaged double figures in points and helped the team secure the German championship, marking a turning point in his career.
His success in Germany led to a contract with Baskonia in Spain’s Liga ACB, one of Europe’s most competitive leagues. At Baskonia, Fontecchio continued to develop, showcasing his versatility and shooting ability against some of the best players in Europe.
Simone’s international career also took off during this period. He became a leader for the Italian national team, playing a pivotal role in their run to the quarterfinals at the 2020 Tokyo Olympics. His standout performance, averaging nearly 20 points per game, drew attention from NBA scouts and analysts, who wondered why such a talented forward wasn’t already in the NBA.
Girlfriend
Simone Fontecchio is in a committed relationship and has a family. His partner’s name is Rosa, and together they have a daughter named Bianca.
Multiple sources confirm that Simone and Rosa have been together for several years, and their daughter Bianca was born while Simone was playing in the NBA. The family has experienced frequent moves due to his professional basketball career, which has taken them across several countries and, most recently, to the United States for his NBA journey.
Despite the challenges of relocating and adapting to new environments, Simone has found joy and stability with his partner and daughter. There is no public information indicating that Simone and Rosa are married, but they are clearly a close-knit family, and Simone often credits his family for their support throughout his career.
Simone Fontecchio’s Net Worth Details
Simone Fontecchio’s net worth is estimated to be between $10 and $12 million as of 2025.
Contract
Simone Fontecchio signed a two-year, $16 million fully guaranteed contract with the Detroit Pistons in July 2024. This deal marks a significant step up in his NBA career, reflecting his increased value and performance on the court.
Under the terms of the contract, Fontecchio will earn $7,692,308 for the 2024-25 season and $8,307,692 for the 2025-26 season. The contract is fully guaranteed, which means he will receive the full amount regardless of injuries or team decisions, providing both financial security and recognition of his important role with the Pistons.
Salary
For the 2024-25 NBA season, Simone Fontecchio will earn a base salary of $7,692,308 as a member of the Detroit Pistons. This salary represents a significant increase from his previous contracts, highlighting his rising status and contributions in the league.
Fontecchio’s earnings place him among the higher-paid players on the Pistons roster, reflecting the team’s confidence in his abilities and the value he brings as a versatile forward and reliable shooter. This guaranteed salary ensures financial stability for Fontecchio and his family as he continues to build his NBA career.
Career Earnings
| Year | Team | Salary | Cumulative Earnings |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2022-23 | Utah Jazz | $3,205,128 | $3,205,128 |
| 2023-24 | Utah Jazz/Detroit Pistons | $4,377,579 | $7,582,707 |
| 2024-25 | Detroit Pistons | $7,692,308 | $15,275,015 |
| 2025-26 | Detroit Pistons | $8,307,692 | $23,582,707 |
NBA Career Stats
| Season | Team | Games | Points | Rebounds | Assists | Steals | Blocks | FG% | 3PT% | FT% |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2022-23 | Utah Jazz | 52 | 6.3 | 1.7 | 0.8 | 0.3 | 0.2 | .369 | .330 | .795 |
| 2023-24 | Utah Jazz/Detroit Pistons | 66 | 10.5 | 3.7 | 1.5 | 0.7 | 0.3 | .460 | .401 | .818 |
| 2024-25 | Detroit Pistons | 75 | 5.9 | 2.9 | 0.9 | 0.4 | 0.2 | .382 | .313 | .811 |
| Career | 193 | 7.6 | 2.8 | 1.1 | 0.5 | 0.2 | .416 | .362 | .820 |
FAQs
1. Who is Simone Fontecchio and what position does he play?
Simone Fontecchio is an Italian professional basketball player who currently plays as a small forward for the Detroit Pistons in the NBA. He is known for his scoring ability, versatility, and has played in top leagues across Europe before joining the NBA.
2. What teams has Simone Fontecchio played for during his professional career?
Fontecchio began his career with Virtus Bologna, then played for Olimpia Milano, Vanoli Cremona, Reggiana, Alba Berlin, Baskonia, Utah Jazz, and currently, the Detroit Pistons. His journey includes experience in Italy, Germany, Spain, and the United States.
3. What are some of Simone Fontecchio’s notable achievements in his basketball career?
Fontecchio has won three consecutive Italian Super Cups with Olimpia Milano, was named Best Player Under 22 in Italy, and made the All-FIBA World Cup Second Team in 2023. He has also delivered key performances for the Italian national team at the Olympics and World Cup.
4. How did Simone Fontecchio perform in the 2020 Summer Olympics?
At the 2020 Summer Olympics, Fontecchio was Italy’s leading scorer in several games, including a 23-point performance against France in the quarterfinals. He consistently led the team in scoring and was recognized as one of Italy’s top performers during the tournament.
5. What is Simone Fontecchio’s background and family history in sports?
Fontecchio comes from a family of athletes. His mother, Malì Pomilio, was a basketball player who led AS Vicenza to two European championships, and his father, Daniele Fontecchio, was a track and field star who competed in the 1984 Olympics and won multiple national titles. His older brother, Luca, also played basketball professionally.
6. What is Simone Fontecchio’s contract status and salary with the Detroit Pistons?
Fontecchio signed a two-year, $16 million contract with the Detroit Pistons, fully guaranteed. His average annual salary is $8 million, and he is set to become an unrestricted free agent in 2026.
7. How has Simone Fontecchio impacted the Detroit Pistons since joining the team?
Fontecchio has become a key contributor for the Pistons, providing scoring, versatility, and helping to elevate the team’s offensive strategies. His presence has been described as instrumental in the team’s recent improvements and rebuilding efforts.
8. What are Simone Fontecchio’s NBA career averages and notable performances?
Fontecchio has played 193 NBA games with career averages of 7.6 points, 2.8 rebounds, and 1.1 assists per game. His career-high in the NBA is 24 points, achieved twice during his time with the Utah Jazz.
9. Has Simone Fontecchio experienced any significant injuries during his career?
Fontecchio underwent surgery on his left big toe in May 2024. He has missed games due to toe, hand, and personal reasons, but has generally maintained good health throughout his professional career.
10. What role has Simone Fontecchio played on the Italian national basketball team?
Fontecchio has been a key player for Italy’s national team, participating in youth and senior competitions. He led Italy in scoring during the 2020 Olympics and averaged 18.0 points and 5.6 rebounds per game at the 2023 FIBA Basketball World Cup, earning a spot on the All-FIBA World Cup Second Team.
