Ben Simmons makes Summer League debut
The Ben Simmons NBA Experience has begun!
Making his Summer League debut in Utah against the Boston Celtics, Simmons put on a tantalizing show before leaving the game early with cramping in his calves.
He was obviously rusty at times which was understandable considering he hadn’t played an official game since March 12. Still, his size, athleticism and unique skill set were obvious, making him a beacon on the court.
Simmons was aggressively looking for his shot early in the game, driving to the basket and scoring his first 6 points from the free throw line.
Splitting the point guard duties with T.J. McConnell, his passing game came to the fore in the second quarter as he repeatedly setup teammates with some crisp and stylish dishes.
.@BenSimmons25 threadin' needles to TLC in SLC. #SummerSixers https://t.co/EN7Ami33Dr
— Philadelphia 76ers (@Sixers) July 4, 2016
His first basket came on an elbow jumper with his man sagging off into the paint. The jumper looked smooth and will be an important shot for him to hit in the NBA to open up driving and passing lanes.
At the end of the first half Simmons had 8 points, 6 rebounds and 3 assists.
He was mostly defended by Jaylen Brown, the no.3 pick in the draft who recently dunked on a child who told him Simmons was better.
In the 3rd quarter you could see lethargy taking over with Simmons forcing some bad shots. Then at the start of the fourth he appeared to roll his ankle before finally succumbing to cramps and being helped from the court.
"That's the worst I've ever cramped," Simmons said post game.
Simmons finished the game with 10 points (2-9 FG, 6-6 FT), 8 rebounds and 5 assists in 23 minutes.
https://twitter.com/Sixers/status/750146276130365441
The Sixers are being conservative with their prized no.1 pick and have already ruled Simmons out of their next game against the Spurs on Wednesday.
The Sixers will face the Jazz on Friday, which Simmons would have to be considered likely to play.
https://youtu.be/akcxuU9pePs