Ben Simmons's Success and Achievements in Timeline

A closer look at the biggest achievements of Ben Simmons. Awards, milestones, and records that define success.

Ben Simmons is an Australian professional basketball player currently with the Los Angeles Clippers. After a standout single season at LSU, he was the first overall pick in the 2016 NBA draft by the Philadelphia 76ers. He missed his first season due to injury, later winning NBA Rookie of the Year in 2018 and becoming a three-time NBA All-Star. A holdout with the 76ers after the 2020-21 season and subsequent trade to the Brooklyn Nets has made Simmons the most fined player in NBA history based on total financial loss.

Sections (5)

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

1960: Oscar Robertson's Rookie Triple-Doubles

Oscar Robertson was the third rookie after Robertson (1960) and Art Williams (1967) to record a triple-double in his first four games.

1967: Art Williams Rookie Triple-Doubles

Art Williams was the third rookie after Robertson (1960) and Art Williams (1967) to record a triple-double in his first four games.

1980: Magic Johnson's Playoff Triple-Double

In 1980, Magic Johnson became the first rookie since then to achieve a playoff triple-double.

December 1991: Shaquille O'Neal scores 43 for Tigers

On December 28, 1991, Shaquille O'Neal scored 43 points against Northern Arizona, a feat that was matched by Ben Simmons on December 2, 2015.

2001: 76ers Best Record Since 2001

The 76ers finished the 2017-18 regular season with a record of 52–30, their best team mark since 2001, when they went 56–26.

April 2013: Wins High School National Tournament

In April 2013, Ben Simmons helped Montverde rally from a 16-point deficit to beat St Benedict's in the final of the High School National Tournament.

2013: Preseason Player of the Year

In 2013, Ben Simmons was named the SEC's Preseason Player of the Year, and earned Associated Press preseason All-America team honours.

2013: Junior Season at Montverde Academy

In the 2013-14 season, Ben Simmons returned to Montverde Academy for his junior season, averaging 18.5 points, 9.8 rebounds, and 2.7 assists per game. Montverde finished the season with a 28-0 record, winning the High School National Tournament. Simmons earned MVP honors.

January 2015: McDonald's All-American Game Selection

In January 2015, Ben Simmons was named as a starter for the East team to compete in the McDonald's All-American Game.

March 2015: Wins Multiple National Player of the Year Awards

In March 2015, Ben Simmons was named the Morgan Wootten Award winner, the Naismith Prep Player of the Year, and the Gatorade National Player of the Year after leading his team to a 28-1 record.

2015: Wins Third Consecutive High School National Tournament

In 2015, Ben Simmons led Montverde Academy to a third consecutive High School National Tournament title and earned MVP honors. He also competed in the Nike Hoop Summit.

2015: Ranked Top Prospect

In 2015, Ben Simmons was considered a five-star recruit by ESPN.com and was listed as the No. 1 power forward and the No. 1 player in the nation.

January 2016: Praised as best all-round player since LeBron James

In January 2016, after a win over Kentucky, Ben Simmons was dubbed the best all-round player since LeBron James by NBA Hall of Famer Magic Johnson.

2018: NBA Rookie of the Year

In 2018, Ben Simmons was named the NBA Rookie of the Year.

2020: Simmons named NBA steals leader

At the end of the 2020 season, Ben Simmons was named the NBA steals leader and was selected for the All-NBA Third Team and the NBA All-Defensive First Team.