NBA media personality Stephen A. Smith has criticized injured Australian All-Star Ben Simmons, sparking interest from basketball enthusiasts and analysts, and highlighting the ongoing saga surrounding Simmons’ career.
A Prolonged Absence
Simmons, who missed the entire 2021-22 NBA season due to a back injury, has been sidelined since early November. Despite hopes for a swift recovery, the uncertainty surrounding his return has left fans and pundits speculating about his future in the league. Despite his agent’s optimism, concerns from NBA followers, including Stephen A. Smith, remain.
Smith’s Frustration Boils Over
During a pre-tournament final interview on ESPN, Smith was asked about his level of concern regarding Simmons’ ability to fulfill his potential given his recurring injuries. Smith’s response was nothing short of scathing.
“I am completely disgusted with him. I am completely disgusted with Ben Simmons, and I think we all should be,” Smith declared emphatically.
Money Over Everything?
Smith expressed frustration with Philadelphia 76ers player DeMarcus Simmons, citing his inactivity due to injuries and his continued paycheck. The Philadelphia 76ers initially withheld $20 million of Simmons’ salary, arguing he breached his contract by refusing to play during the 2021-22 season due to mental health concerns. Simmons and the National Basketball Players Association filed a grievance, eventually reaching a settlement. Smith lamented the constant interruptions on Simmons’ career, comparing him to an elite player in the game. Despite his fondness for Simmons, Smith lamented the impact of his injuries on his career. The specific terms of the settlement were not disclosed.
A Lack of Passion?
Smith concluded his rant by questioning Simmons’ commitment to the game of basketball, suggesting that he had lost his passion for it.
“I’m a fan of Ben Simmons. I like him genuinely as a person, but I can’t measure my disappointment I have towards him,” Smith added.
“He has shown an unwillingness to have a passion to play the game of basketball.”
“You’re too great, you’re too talented, you’re too gifted to be allowing your talents to be wasting away the way that it has. I’m not excusing it anymore. He’s lucky he’s injured because if he weren’t injured I’d be talking about him every chance I got until he gets on the court and shows us his greatness because he can be a great player, a very talented player.
“But enough of this nonsense.”
FAQs
What caused Ben Simmons’ prolonged absence from the NBA?
Ben Simmons has been sidelined due to a nerve impingement in his back, which has kept him out of action since early November.
Did Ben Simmons face financial issues related to his absence from the 76ers?
Yes, there was a financial dispute between Simmons and the Philadelphia 76ers, with the team initially withholding a portion of his salary due to his refusal to play during the 2021-22 season.
Is Stephen A. Smith a fan of Ben Simmons?
Yes, Stephen A. Smith expressed his admiration for Ben Simmons as a person but voiced his disappointment with the player’s career choices.
What skills did Ben Simmons excel at during his NBA career?
Ben Simmons was known for his ball-handling, passing, playmaking abilities, and defensive prowess, despite his limitations in shooting from the perimeter.
What does Stephen A. Smith believe is lacking in Ben Simmons’ approach to the game?
Stephen A. Smith believes that Ben Simmons has shown an “unwillingness to have a passion to play the game of basketball,” which has hindered his progress in the NBA.