BENJAMIN DAVID SIMMONS

Before basketball, there was football. Well, Australian rules football. Ben Simmons was born in Melbourne Australia. He played both sports from the time he was ten. When forced to choose in eighth grade, Ben chose basketball. Focused on basketball, Ben blossomed. His Sophomore year he moved to the U.S.A. to compete a higher level. At Montverde Academy in Florida, he won three consecutive High School National Tournament titles. Ben chose  Louisiana State University to play his college ball.

At LSU, Simmons was brilliant. While LSU struggled as a team, Ben garnered national attention every time he took the court. His all-around play caused Magic Johnson to call him the most complete player since LeBron James. When LSU's disappointing season came to an end, Ben declared for the 2016 NBA draft. He was chosen first by the Philadelphia 76ers. An injury in the 76ers preseason stalled Ben's rookie debut. He responded by winning the Rookie of the Year award in 2017. The 76ers won their first playoff series due in large part to their rookie sensation. After years of first-round picks and ugly finishes, Philly had found her new prince.

Without a doubt, Ben is the Fresh Prince Philly has been waiting for since Will Smith left for Hollywood. Ben's style is smart, sharp and classy. He brings layers to a new level, unafraid of colors and patterns. Distressed denim, beanies and street-casual kicks are staples in his closet. Ben even finds new ways to make hoodies and tees seem fresh, doing whatever it is he does best.

FUN FACTS

• In 2016, Simmons was featured in the Showtime documentary film One & Done
• Ben is the only player ever drafted first overall without ever playing in the NCAA Tournament.
• Ben’s ROY award was criticized by some, claiming he was injured in his draft year, forgoing his chance at the rookie title.