Five Things You Did Not Know About NBA Star Ben Simmons
Ben Simmons is one of the most promising talents in the league. The three-time NBA All-Star is currently playing in his seventh season in the league and second with the Brooklyn Nets. Along with Kyrie Irving and Kevin Durant, Simmons is aiming to win his first NBA championship and the first for the Nets since 1976.
Ben Simmons was drafted as the first overall pick in the 2016 draft ahead of Brandon Ingram. He was drafted by the Philadelphia 76ers and spent six years there before he switched over to the Nets. While many consider this a good move career-wise for Simmons, it has made him a lot of enemies in Philadelphia. Here are five things you did not know about the 26-year-old Simmons.
Born in Australia
Simmons was born in Melbourne, Australia to Dave and Julie Simmons. His father was a professional basketball player in the Australian league and encouraged his son to take up the sport early on. It was clear from a very young age that Simmons had the skills to become an elite player.
Legend for a father
Dave Simmons, Ben’s New York City-born dad, played 13 years in Australia’s NBL, including seven years with the Melbourne Tigers. He won a championship with the Tigers in 1993 and has his jersey retired by the franchise.
Pet Dragon
Ben Simmons has a pet bearded dragon named Mutombo.
One season is all it took
Ben Simmons played basketball at LSU for one season before declaring for the draft. In one season, Simmons had done enough to convince most teams in the league that he was good enough to be the first draft pick in the league.
Team he supports
Growing up, Ben Simmons idolized LeBron James and his favorite teams were the Miami Heat and the New York Knicks. The 26-year-old also considers LeBron James an idol of his.
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