Ben Simmons Believes Philadelphia 76ers Are Forcing Him To Play

By Tadi Abedje Published: November 12, 2021

Ben Simmons Believes Philadelphia 76ers Are Forcing Him To Play

FILE - In this March 11, 2020, file photo, Philadelphia 76ers' Ben Simmons smiles while speaking at a news conference before an NBA basketball game against the Detroit Pistons in Philadelphia. Video games have become a go-to hobby for millions self-isolating around the world, and athletes from preps to pros have eagerly grabbed the controls. Stars like Ben Simmons and Luka Doncic have turned to gaming to stay connected with fans.(AP Photo/Matt Slocum, File)

In Summary

The All-Star says the team’s recent actions are worsening his mental health and they are forcing him to play.

Philadelphia 76ers All-Star Ben Simmons believes the team’s actions are worsening his mental health problems and that they want him fit to require him to play, despite what he tells the team’s mental health therapist, according to The Athletic.

“I truly believe the fines, the targeting, the negative publicity shined on the issue — that’s very unnecessary and has furthered the mental health issues for Ben,” said his agent, Klutch Sports CEO Rich Paul to The Athletic. “Either you help Ben, or come out and say he’s lying. Which one is it?”

A 76ers team official has denied these allegations. Their stance is for Simmons to participate in all of their team activities unless there is information from their mental health professional or Simmons that would prevent him from playing, according to The Athletic.

The three-time All-Star has not given a timetable to return to game action, as he said he wants to be back on the floor when he feels ready.

“In this case, we have to get Ben help and not put finances above mental health,” Paul said in The Athletic. “As an agent, I understand contractual obligations and I hold myself accountable in this business. But if someone is telling you something, we can no longer turn a blind eye in today’s world.”

Simmons had requested a trade after the 76ers lost to the Atlanta Hawks in the Eastern Conference semifinals after his All-Star teammate Joel Embiid and head coach Doc Rivers called him out publicly on his performance.