Brooklyn Nets guard Ben Simmons opened up about his time with the Philadelphia 76ers, reflecting on his early years in the NBA and the unique experience of playing in Philadelphia.
“For me, going to a city like Philadelphia—it was so different,” Simmons said in an appearance on The Young Man and The Three podcast, via HoopsHype. “From Melbourne, Australia, to Louisiana, to Philly—completely different places.”
The 28-year-old acknowledged how impactful the fans in Philadelphia were, admitting that he didn’t fully appreciate their support during his tenure with the 76ers. “The fans in Philadelphia are incredible. You always want to play for a team with a good fan base. Whether they’re booing or cheering, you just want fans to care,” Simmons explained.
Simmons praised the passionate nature of the city’s supporters, emphasizing the energy they brought to the games. “Having that experience in Philadelphia was amazing. I’m so grateful to have played there and to have experienced the city.”
Reflecting on his time with the 76ers, Simmons recognized the championship aspirations the team held during his tenure. “That place had championship-caliber teams. We had a chance to win a chip, and I’m just grateful for that experience.”
He also noted the unique environment of playing for an organization with such a dedicated fan base. “It taught me what it’s like to be part of an organization and a city like Philadelphia,” Simmons said. “There’s no place like it.”
Now with the Brooklyn Nets, Simmons tries to apply the lessons learned from his time in Philadelphia to his current role in Brooklyn. “I’m trying to embrace what it is, knowing it’s not Philly, but we’re here for a reason,” Simmons added. “We’re trying to do everything we can to make an impact, win games, and build Brooklyn up.”
Simmons, who is in his fourth season with the Nets, has seen his production dip this year. He is currently averaging a near career-low 6.3 points, 5.3 rebounds, and 7.1 assists in 25.3 minutes per game.