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 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

1989: Father Joins Melbourne Tigers

In 1989, Ben Simmons' father, Dave Simmons, joined the Melbourne Tigers in Australia's National Basketball League.

July 1996: Birth of Ben Simmons

In July 1996, Benjamin David Simmons was born.

2011: Played at Australian Schools Championships

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

2012: Scholarship at Australian Institute of Sport

In 2012, Ben Simmons took up a scholarship at the Australian Institute of Sport and made his first appearance in the United States at the Pangos All-American Camp for basketball prospects. He was also chosen to represent Australia at the 2012 FIBA Under-17 World Championship.

January 2013: Move to the U.S.

In January 2013, Ben Simmons moved to the United States to compete against boys of comparable size and athleticism and attended Montverde Academy in Montverde, Florida.

April 2013: High School National Tournament Victory

In April 2013, Ben Simmons helped Montverde Academy rally to beat St Benedict's in the final of the High School National Tournament.

October 2013: Committed to LSU

On 14 October 2013, Ben Simmons committed to Louisiana State University (LSU), choosing LSU over offers from Kentucky, Kansas, and Duke.

2013: Preseason Honors

In 2013, Before his freshman year of college, Ben Simmons was featured on the Blue Ribbon College Basketball Yearbook cover and named SEC's Preseason Player of the Year and Associated Press preseason All-America team.

2013: Junior Season at Montverde Academy

In 2013, during his junior season, Ben Simmons averaged 18.5 points, 9.8 rebounds, and 2.7 assists per game, leading Montverde Academy to a 28-0 record and a High School National Tournament victory over Oak Hill Academy. He earned MVP honors.

November 2014: Signed National Letter of Intent with LSU

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

November 2015: College Debut with LSU

In November 2015, Ben Simmons made his college debut for LSU, recording a double-double in a win over McNeese State.

June 2016: Cousin killed in hit-and-run

A cousin of Ben Simmons, who had attended the 2016 NBA draft, was killed in a hit-and-run on 25 June 2016 in New Jersey.

November 2016: Featured in 'One & Done' documentary

In November 2016, Ben Simmons was featured in the Showtime documentary film "One & Done", providing insights into his time as a one-and-done college player.

Loading Video...

September 2018: Simmons Works on Improving Shooting

In September 2018, Ben Simmons started working with his brother Liam Tribe-Simmons to improve his shooting skills during the off-season, with plans to continue throughout the season.