Ben Simmons ranked 8th among NBA's most popular jerseys
Ben Simmons' popularity continues to rise, as evidenced by his position on the All-Star voting (third among Eastern Conference guards), and as announced today, by his appearance on the NBA's Most Popular Jersey list.
The results were released by the NBA earlier today, based off NBAStore.com sales from October to December last year. Stephen Curry of the Golden State Warriors leads the list, with LeBron James of the Cleveland Cavaliers in second place.
Simmons ranked 8th on the list, ahead of All-Stars like Kawhi Leonard (9th), James Harden (10th) and Kyrie Irving (12th). He is one of two rookies featured on the list, together with Lakers guard Lonzo Ball (11th).
While Curry's Warriors also led the NBA's Top 10 Team Merchandise list, Simmons' Philadelphia 76ers surprisingly ranked third for the first time, since the 2003-04 NBA season.
Simmons placed 4th in Australian online jersey sales last season, despite not having played a single minute due to preseason injury. The Sixers guard is having an excellent season so far, averaging 16.8 points on 51.3% shooting, 8.0 rebounds, 7.3 assists, 1.9 steals and a block.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=OH9Tyn735lw
Not only did he make the most out of what was essentially an NBA redshirt season, he is visibly improving and refining his offensive skills, since making his debut on the NBA hardwood. Simmons is well on track to an All-Star appearance, making him Australia's first All-Star, should this happen. He's also a prime candidate for this season's Rookie of the Year Award.
Top 15 most popular NBA jerseys
Stephen Curry, Golden State Warriors
LeBron James, Cleveland Cavaliers
Kevin Durant, Golden State Warriors
Giannis Antetokounmpo, Milwaukee Bucks
Kristaps Porzingis, New York Knicks
Joel Embiid, Philadelphia 76ers
Russell Westbrook, Oklahoma City Thunder
Ben Simmons, Philadelphia 76ers
Kawhi Leonard, San Antonio Spurs
James Harden, Houston Rockets
Lonzo Ball, Los Angeles Lakers
Kyrie Irving, Boston Celtics
Klay Thompson, Golden State Warriors
Damian Lillard, Portland Trail Blazers
Jimmy Butler, Minnesota Timberwolves
Top 10 most popular team merchandise
Golden State Warriors
Cleveland Cavaliers
Philadelphia 76ers
Los Angeles Lakers
New York Knicks
Milwaukee Bucks
Boston Celtics
San Antonio Spurs
Chicago Bulls
Oklahoma City Thunder