In a candid revelation, former Philadelphia 76ers player Danny Green has shed light on the tumultuous exit of Australian basketball star Ben Simmons from the team. The departure, which was marked by public scrutiny and internal discord, was reportedly catalyzed by comments from head coach Doc Rivers.
Simmons, who was the first overall pick in the 2016 NBA Draft, quickly rose to prominence, earning the Rookie of the Year title and securing three All-Star selections. However, his performance during the 2021 postseason came under intense criticism, culminating in a pivotal moment during a June 2021 press conference. It was there that Rivers expressed uncertainty about Simmons’ capability as a championship-level point guard, stating, “I don’t know.” This remark reportedly did not sit well with Simmons.
The Catalyst for Departure
Following Rivers’ comments, reports surfaced suggesting that the 76ers were considering trading Simmons. This speculation appeared to be the final straw for the player, who then aggressively sought a transfer. By September 2022, Simmons was traded to the Brooklyn Nets in exchange for superstar James Harden.
Green, speaking on the No Fouls Given podcast, recounted the sequence of events that led to Simmons’ decision to leave. “It was after the playoffs, when Doc had that statement, I don’t think he took kind to it,” Green explained. He elaborated on the situation, describing it as a “break up with you before you break up with me” scenario.
Inside the Team Dynamics
According to Green, Simmons’ relationship with the team deteriorated rapidly. Despite efforts by teammates to reach out and discuss the situation, Simmons reportedly told them not to bother. “He communicated with one or two guys on the team he was still cool with, like Shake Milton and somebody else. But everybody else, he treated us like we were front office,” Green noted.
The tension reached a peak when Simmons allegedly got himself ejected from practice by attending with a phone in his pocket, a move interpreted as deliberate. Green recounted, “He had sweats on, phone in the pocket, did a couple drills. Doc was like, ‘Yo, come on in bruh’, he was like, ‘Nah I’m good’, ‘Alright get the f**k out then, go home’.”
Expert Opinions and Broader Implications
Experts suggest that Simmons’ exit from Philadelphia highlights broader issues within the NBA regarding player-team dynamics and communication. The incident underscores the challenges teams face in managing star players who may feel undervalued or misunderstood. Furthermore, it raises questions about the role of media and public perception in influencing player decisions.
According to sports analyst Chris Broussard, “This situation is a classic example of how quickly relationships can sour in professional sports, particularly when public comments are involved. It’s a delicate balance for coaches and players alike.”
Looking Ahead
As Simmons begins a new chapter with the Brooklyn Nets, the focus shifts to how he will adapt and perform in a new environment. The trade represents an opportunity for both Simmons and the 76ers to move forward, though the impact of the departure will likely be felt for some time.
The situation serves as a reminder of the complex interplay between personal dynamics and professional obligations in the world of sports. As teams and players navigate these challenges, the lessons learned from Simmons’ exit may inform future interactions and decisions.
For fans and analysts alike, the unfolding narrative of Ben Simmons’ career continues to be a subject of keen interest, offering insights into the evolving landscape of the NBA.
