Childhood and Education Journey of Ben Simmons in Timeline

An overview of the childhood and early education of Ben Simmons, highlighting the experiences that shaped the journey.

Ben Simmons is an Australian professional basketball player drafted first overall in 2016 by the Philadelphia 76ers. After a single season at LSU, where he earned All-American honors, Simmons sat out his initial NBA season due to injury, later winning Rookie of the Year in 2018. A three-time NBA All-Star with Philadelphia, a holdout and subsequent trade sent him to the Brooklyn Nets. Following a buyout from the Nets in February 2025, Simmons signed with the Los Angeles Clippers.

Sections (5)

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

1989: Father played for Melbourne Tigers

In 1989, Dave Simmons, Ben's father, played professional basketball for the Melbourne Tigers in Australia's National Basketball League.

July 1996: Ben Simmons was born

On July 1996, Benjamin David Simmons was born.

2011: Played for Box Hill Senior Secondary College

In 2011, at the age of 15, Ben Simmons played basketball for Box Hill Senior Secondary College at the Australian Schools Championships.

2012: Attended Australian Institute of Sport and FIBA Under-17 World Championship

In 2012, Ben Simmons took up a scholarship at the Australian Institute of Sport and represented Australia at the FIBA Under-17 World Championship.

January 2013: Moved to the U.S.

In January 2013, Ben Simmons moved to the U.S. to compete at Montverde Academy in Montverde, Florida.

June 2013: Joined the Bulleen Boomers

In June 2013, Ben Simmons joined the Bulleen Boomers of the Big V competition.

October 2013: Committed to Louisiana State University

On 14 October 2013, Ben Simmons committed to Louisiana State University (LSU).

November 2014: Signed to play for LSU

On 12 November 2014, Ben Simmons signed a National Letter of Intent to play college basketball for LSU.

June 2016: Cousin Killed in Hit-and-Run

In June 2016, a cousin of Simmons who had attended the 2016 NBA draft, was killed in a hit-and-run in New Jersey.

November 2016: Featured in Showtime documentary 'One & Done'

In November 2016, Ben Simmons was featured in the Showtime documentary film 'One & Done'. The film provided insights into his experiences as a one-and-done college player and explored his and his family's perspectives on the NCAA and the NBA's "one and done" rule.

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