The saga between Ben Simmons and the 76ers has hit another snag.
As first reported by ESPN’s Ramona Shelburne, those close to Ben Simmons say the former NBA All-Star is willing to sit out the entire season.
“Ben Simmons is willing to sit as long as it takes to,” Shelburne said this week on The Jump, as transcribed by The Spun. “When you talk to people close to Ben, I say, ”Okay, worst-case scenario it takes all year. Would he sit all year?” And the answer right now is: ‘Yes.’”
Will the 76ers finally make a move?
.@KendrickPerkins goes IN on Ben Simmons 😳
"He's scared! And it's not because of basketball … He's afraid to face the crowd. He's afraid to step in that arena and hear those boo's and [have to] silence the critics." pic.twitter.com/m0gaJjGod3
— First Take (@FirstTake) September 29, 2021
The media has hammered Simmons since the 76ers playoff series loss to the Atlanta Hawks last season. Many speculate that the former 1st overall pick doesn’t want to face the pressure of playing for the 76ers after failing to help the team reach the Eastern Conference Finals last season.
Simmons’s time in Philadelphia seems all but over, and he will do whatever it takes to make that a reality. Including not playing an entire season in the prime of his career.
Oh lord!!!! Ben Simmons passes up open dunk #philaunite @kaynechu pic.twitter.com/t8LcpI9ftn
— Your NBA Podcast (@YourNBAPodcast) June 21, 2021
Simmons is a three-time NBA All-Star that has averaged 15.9 points, 8.1 rebounds, and 7.7 assists throughout his career. Simmons also took home Rookie of The Year in the 2017-18 season. 76ers fans have waited for Simmons to break out and lead this team to an NBA Finals appearance, but his limited shooting skills have hindered the team when they need him to reach out of his comfort zone.
Both parties should realize that this marriage isn’t working and that maybe it’s time to look for a fresh start.
