The long story of Ben Simmons and the possibility that he will play for Australia at this year’s FIBA World Cup appears to have reached a conclusion.
The 26-year-old point will not play at the tournament this August, per Nets Daily. The Nets and Simmons decided that cutting short his rehab by three weeks wouldn’t be worth the additional playing time in Asia.
The decision was made earlier this week, and Simmons has been training at the University of Miami. He had hoped to join the Boomers, but regaining his previous form for the NBA season was his top priority. The Nets are pleased with Simmons’ recovery, considering him in a good physical and mental state.
Last season, he played in only 42 games, averaging 6.9 points, 6.3 rebounds and 6.1 assists in 26.3 minutes per game.
Australia will start their FIBA World Cup campaign in Group E alongside Finland, Germany and Japan.
There could a whole bunch of prominent players missing the tournament with the likes of Giannis Antetokounmpo, Domantas Sabonis and many American stars either missing or being doubtful.
