Gafford was a four star recruit in high school, and received offers in 2015 from several schools, including Kansas, Vanderbilt, and Florida. On August 1, 2015, Gafford committed to Arkansas. Gafford also played football growing up and was a wide receiver until ninth grade at El Dorado High School. He also was in the marching band and credits that to the development of his skill set.
College career
In his first start for the Razorbacks, Gafford finished a perfect 8 for 8 shooting, along with 7 rebounds and 6 blocks against Minnesota. Gafford posted 21 points, 10 rebounds and seven blocks against No. 14 Auburn. After a freshman season where he averaged 11.8 points 6.2 rebounds per game, Gafford announced that he would return to Arkansas for his sophomore year rather than declare for the 2018 NBA Draft. After his freshman season, Gafford was named to the SEC All-Freshman team. On March 18, 2019, after Gafford's sophomore season, it was announced that Gafford would skip the 2019 National Invitation Tournament to prepare for the 2019 NBA draft. Gafford improved his statistics during his second year at Arkansas, averaging 16.9 points, 8.6 rebounds, and 1.9 blocks per game. He was named to the 2019 SEC All-Defensive Team, as well as a 1st Team All-SEC pick. Gafford was known for his thunderous dunks, especially alley-oops, and his shot blocking ability. He was a crowd favorite during Razorback home games at Bud Walton Arena.
Professional career
Chicago Bulls (2019–present)
Gafford was selected 38th pick overall by the Chicago Bulls in the 2019 NBA Draft. On July 8, 2019, the Chicago Bulls announced that they had signed with Gafford. On October 26, 2019, Gafford made his debut in NBA, coming off from bench in an 84–108 loss to the Toronto Raptors with a rebound. He was assigned to the Windy City Bulls for opening night of the NBA G League season. Gafford began to see more playing time for the Bulls in January 2020 and received more lobs and blocked shots. On January 16, 2020, it was announced that Gafford would miss two to four weeks with a dislocated thumb.
