Gursimran Singh Sim Bhullar, born on December 2, 1992, in Toronto, Ontario, is not just a towering figure in height but also a towering presence in the history of basketball. Standing at an impressive 7’5″, Bhullar’s journey from the suburbs of Brampton to the courts of the NBA is a story of resilience, cultural significance, and breaking barriers.
Sim Bhullar holds the unique distinction of being the first player of Indian descent to ever play in the NBA, marking a monumental moment not just for himself, but for the global basketball community and the Indian diaspora.
Early Life and High School Beginnings of Sim Bhullar
Sim Bhullar’s story begins in the multicultural city of Toronto, where he grew up in a Sikh household in Brampton. From a young age, his extraordinary height set him apart, but it was his dedication and love for basketball that truly defined his path. Bhullar attended Father Henry Carr Catholic Secondary School in Etobicoke, Toronto, where he began to hone his basketball skills.
His talent quickly became evident, and he transferred to The Kiski School in Saltsburg, Pennsylvania, for the 2009–10 school year. There, he dominated the court, averaging a near triple-double with 16 points, 14 rebounds, and eight blocks per game—a feat that hinted at the greatness to come.
His performance caught the attention of scouts, and during the FIBA Americas Under-18 tournament in 2010, Bhullar showcased his potential on an international stage. Even in a loss to the United States, his size and skill were undeniable as he contributed 14 points, four rebounds, and three blocks off the bench. This was just the beginning of Bhullar’s journey toward becoming a trailblazer in the world of basketball.
The College Years: A Path Paved with Determination
Bhullar’s college career was marked by both challenges and triumphs. Originally committed to Xavier University, Bhullar’s plans took a turn when he learned that he was not immediately eligible to play and would have to cover the full tuition cost. This financial obstacle led him to decommit and instead join the New Mexico State Aggies, a decision that would ultimately shape his future.
Although he had to wait until the 2012–13 season to make his debut due to eligibility issues, Sim Bhullar made an immediate impact once he stepped onto the court. In his freshman year, he averaged 10.1 points, 6.7 rebounds, and 2.4 blocks per game, quickly establishing himself as a force to be reckoned with.
His sophomore year saw further improvement, with 10.4 points, 7.8 rebounds, and 3.4 blocks per game. Sim Bhullar’s dominance in the Western Athletic Conference (WAC) earned him back-to-back WAC Tournament MVP awards in 2013 and 2014, helping New Mexico State reach the NCAA tournament both years.
Bhullar’s college career was more than just stats and accolades—it was a testament to his resilience and commitment. His journey was not without its hurdles, but each challenge only strengthened his resolve to succeed. In April 2014, after a successful sophomore season, Bhullar declared for the NBA draft, ready to take the next step in his groundbreaking career.
Making History in the NBA: A Milestone for Indian Representation
Sim Bhullar’s entry into the NBA was a momentous occasion, not just for him, but for millions of people around the world. Despite going undrafted in the 2014 NBA draft, Bhullar’s talent did not go unnoticed. He joined the Sacramento Kings for the NBA Summer League, and on August 14, 2014, he made history by signing with the Kings, becoming the first player of Indian descent to join an NBA team.
Bhullar’s time with the Kings was brief but historic. On April 2, 2015, he signed a 10-day contract with the team, and five days later, he made history once again by becoming the first player of Indian descent to play in an NBA game.
When Sim Bhullar checked in for the final 16.1 seconds of the Kings’ victory over the Minnesota Timberwolves, it was more than just a debut—it was a moment of pride and inspiration for the Indian community worldwide. Bhullar scored his first NBA points shortly after, cementing his place in the annals of basketball history.
Although his tenure with the Kings was short-lived, Bhullar’s impact was long-lasting. Sim Bhullar rejoined the Kings for the 2015 NBA Summer League and later played for Raptors 905 in the NBA Development League, where he continued to impress with his performances. His journey in the NBA may have been brief, but it paved the way for future generations of players from diverse backgrounds.
A Global Ambassador for Basketball: Beyond the NBA
After his stint in the NBA, Sim Bhullar’s basketball career took him across the globe, where he continued to inspire and excel. He played for the Dacin Tigers in Taiwan, the Guangxi Rhinos in China, and eventually joined the Hsinchu JKO Lioneers in Taiwan’s P. League+. In December 2022, Bhullar signed with the Tainan TSG GhostHawks of the T1 League, where he continues to make his mark as a dominant force on the court.
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