For the first time since his post-Game 7 presser against the Atlanta Hawks last season, former Philadelphia 76er and new Brooklyn Net Ben Simmons spoke to reporters today.
Immediately following that loss, of course, Simmons demanded a trade out of Philadelphia. Then, he and his agency commenced with doing their talking through a slew of sourced leaks throughout the media over the ensuing months. But Tuesday was the public’s first opportunity to hear from Simmons directly after all this unpleasantness between he and the Sixers transpired.
Here is some of what he had to say:
Ben Simmons on whether he would’ve returned to Philly: “It was about making sure mentally I was right. It wasn’t about the coaches or fans…”
Simmons on people who are skeptical of his mental health claims: "They should be happy I'm smiling, honestly. I've had some dark times over these last six months, and I'm just happy to be with this team"
Simmons: "It wasn't a personal thing toward any player, or coach, or owners or anything like that"
Simmons on what happened that led to his exit in Philly: "If I knew, I would tell you everything. It's just a lot of things internally that had happened over time, and it just got to a place where I don't think it was good for me mentally"
Ben Simmons on if he'll be physically/mentally ready for March 10 vs. Philadelphia: "I hope so."
Full quotes:
Quote
“For me, it was about making sure I was mentally right to get out there and play again, so that’s something I’ve been dealing with. It wasn’t about the fans or coaches or comments made about anybody, it was a personal thing for me that (began) earlier than (the Hawks playoff series) or even that season, that I was dealing with. That organization knew that. It was something I continue to deal with. I’m getting there and getting to the right place to get back on the floor.”
“The mental health has nothing to do with just the trade. It was a bunch of things I was dealing with as a person, in my personal life, that I don’t want to go in depth with. But I’m here now and it’s a blessing to be with an organization like this. I’m looking forward to getting back on the floor and building something great here.”
Simmons also noted that he did not speak with Joel Embiid after the trade. He did, however, speak with Josh Harris, Elton Brand, Doc Rivers and Tobias Harris. He reiterated that people “didn’t know” what was going on and had his family there supporting him “from day one.” It was never a personal thing targeting towards anybody against the Sixers.