By Eurohoops team / info@eurohoops.net
The ever-going saga between the Philadelphia 76ers and Ben Simmons has been a constant topic of discussion in the NBA. The Sixers have fined Simmons time and time again, while the All-Star finally took a step forward this week to meet with a team-recommended mental health specialist.
For the first time since the news of Simmons’ mental health status broke out, his agent, Rich Paul, spoke to The Athletic’s Shams Charania, addressing the situation of his client.
“I truly believe the fines, the targeting, the negative publicity shined on the issue, that’s very unnecessary and has furthered the mental health issues for Ben. Either you help Ben, or come out and say he’s lying. Which one is it?”, says Paul, CEO of Klutch Sports and Simmons’ agent.
“In this case, we have to get Ben help and not put finances above mental health,” he adds. “As an agent, I understand contractual obligations and I hold myself accountable in this business. But if someone is telling you something, we can no longer turn a blind eye in today’s world”.
Paul also addressed Simmons’ wish to be traded by the Sixers which he expressed this summer. On that front, the Boston Celtics have been reported to “consider” a trade for the Sixers guard.
“This is no longer about a trade. This is about finding a place where we can help Ben get back to his mental strength and get back on the floor. I want him on the floor playing the game that he loves. I want Ben on the floor whether that’s in a 76ers uniform or any other uniform, that’s not up to me, but I want him in a state where he can resume play. We want to cooperate and want to work him back on the floor”, tells Paul.
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