NBA
Ben Simmons Is The Third Sixer To Win The ROY Award
The good vibes continue for Philadelphia sports fans. First, it was the Philadelphia Eagles winning their first Super Bowl in franchise history then it was the Villanova basketball team winning two NCAA championships in three years. Now it’s the Philadelphia 76ers clinching a playoff spot and winning a playoff series against the Miami Heat. None of it would have been possible without Ben Simmons.
Simmons won a close race. It’s not a debate that Simmons had worthy rivals. Utah Jazz shooting guard Donovan Mitchell and Boston Celtics small forward Jayson Tatum made it interesting. Some might argue that Simmons doesn’t deserve the award, but the reality is no other rookie performed better. For this reason, he is the ROY for the 2018 NBA season.
Ben Simmons
Named Rookie of the Year ??
Joins AI and MCW as only Sixers to win award #PhilaUnite pic.twitter.com/BjIKh3QDHG
— John Clark (@JClarkNBCS) June 26, 2018
His Numbers Show That He’s Only Going To Get Better
The Rookie of the Year averaged 15.8 points, 8.1 rebounds, 8.2 assists and 1.7 steals per game. He was sensational for the Sixers as his performances helped the Sixers reach the playoffs for the first time since 2012.
NBA head coaches recognized Simmons’ special rookie season as they awarded Simmons with a spot on the NBA All-Rookie First Team. His dominance near the rim and clever passing are some of the things that Simmons excels at.
Ben Simmons wins ROY! pic.twitter.com/QtmpEc4qXh
— Cycle (@bycycle) June 26, 2018
What Can Ben Simmons Work On To Surpass His Rookie Season?
Indeed, there are some things that Simmons can work on to improve his game. His inability to shoot the ball got exposed in the playoffs. He knows it’s something he has to work on and if he wants to take the Sixers to the next level, they’re going to need him to develop an outside shot.
Controlling his emotions in intense games is another one. Simmons had a tough series against the Boston Celtics. His rival Jayson Tatum outshined him and looked much more prepared for the big stage compared to him. Simmons broke Twitter when he only managed to score one point in Game 2.
However, let’s not forget the 21-year-old just started his career this season. He has one of the highest ceilings in the NBA and has potential to be the biggest superstar in the NBA in upcoming years.
