In a shocking turn of events, Ben Simmons’ once-promising NBA career appears to be spiraling toward a definitive end. Once hailed as the league’s brightest young star, Simmons’ trajectory has plummeted dramatically, with this season’s dismal average of just 6.9 points per game marking one of the most astonishing declines in basketball history.

Simmons, 𝐛𝐨𝐫𝐧 July 20, 1996, in Melbourne, Australia, was a basketball prodigy, dominating at Montverde Academy and earning accolades at LSU before being drafted first overall by the Philadelphia 76ers in 2016. After a rocky start due to injury, he showcased his talent, winning Rookie of the Year and earning All-Star selections. However, the tides turned as his offensive struggles and inability to shoot consistently alienated him from teammates and fans alike.

The breaking point came during the 2020 playoffs when Simmons faced relentless criticism for his lack of aggression and poor free-throw shooting. Following a series of controversial decisions, including passing up an open dunk, he demanded a trade, leading to a tumultuous exit from Philadelphia. His subsequent move to the Brooklyn Nets in 2022 promised a fresh start, but injuries continued to plague him, culminating in a nerve impingement diagnosis that sidelined him for the remainder of the season.

Now, with the Nets exploring trade options and interest in Simmons virtually nonexistent, the franchise is left grappling with the reality of his $77 million contract. As Simmons’ future hangs in the balance, the question looms: can he reclaim his former glory, or has the NBA’s “next big thing” already faded into obscurity? Time is running out, and the clock is ticking on what remains of Ben Simmons’ basketball legacy.