Challenges Faced by Ben Simmons: Obstacles and Turning Points

Life is full of challenges, and Ben Simmons faced many. Discover key struggles and how they were overcome.

Ben Simmons is an Australian professional basketball player currently with the Los Angeles Clippers. He played college basketball at LSU, earning All-American honors. Drafted first overall by the Philadelphia 76ers in 2016, he missed his first season due to injury but was named Rookie of the Year in 2018. Simmons is a three-time NBA All-Star. A holdout from the 76ers following the 2020-21 season resulted in a trade to the Brooklyn Nets and significant fines, making him the most-fined player in NBA history.

Sections (5)

Full Timeline Early Life & Education Career & Achievements Success & Recognition Challenges & Struggles

January 2016: Comparisons to LeBron James and Bench Due to Academics

In January 2016, Ben Simmons was compared to LeBron James by Magic Johnson and was later benched for a game against Tennessee due to academic reasons. He was named first-team All-Southeastern Conference and the league's Freshman of the Year.

April 2016: Withdrew from the Australian team

In April 2016, Ben Simmons withdrew from the Australian team to prepare for his rookie NBA season.

September 2016: Fractured Foot Injury

In September 2016, Ben Simmons fractured the fifth metatarsal bone in his right foot during a 76ers training camp scrimmage.

2016: LSU's Season and Tournament Performance

In 2016, LSU finished the regular season with an 18-13 record and lost in the SEC tournament semifinals, failing to receive an NCAA tournament berth. Ben Simmons led the team in most statistical categories, averaging 19.2 points, 11.8 rebounds, and 4.8 assists per game.

February 2017: Ruled Out for Season

In February 2017, Ben Simmons was ruled out for the entire 2016-17 NBA season due to his foot injury not fully healing.

July 2019: Announced withdrawal from the Australian national team

In July 2019, Ben Simmons announced that he would not play for the Australian national team in 2019, citing "professional obligations".

2020: Holdout and Trade

In 2020, Ben Simmons' holdout from the 76ers began, ultimately leading to a trade to the Brooklyn Nets.

June 2021: Withdrew from Australia Olympic squad

In June 2021, Ben Simmons withdrew from the Australia Olympic squad, stating that he was focusing on improving his shooting skills for the 2021–22 NBA season.

August 2021: Trade Demand

In August 2021, Ben Simmons decided he wanted to be traded from the 76ers, citing issues with his fit alongside Joel Embiid. He indicated his willingness to miss training camp to push for a trade.

October 2021: Suspension and Fines

In October 2021, Ben Simmons returned to the 76ers but was suspended for conduct detrimental to the team after refusing to participate in a drill. He faced repeated fines for his absence, becoming the most-fined player in NBA history, and cited mental health issues.

2021: Criticism After Playoff Loss

Following the 76ers' Game 7 loss in the 2021 Eastern Conference Semifinals, Joel Embiid and coach Doc Rivers questioned Ben Simmons's performance and fit with the team.

2021: Refusal to Play and Financial Consequences

In 2021, Ben Simmons missed training camp and preseason games, leading the 76ers to withhold $8.25 million of his salary. He also put his Philadelphia home on the market.

January 2022: Limited Fines and Continued Absence

In January 2022, The 76ers reportedly limited their fining of Ben Simmons in response to him attending team meetings and counseling sessions, but continued to dock him for missed games.