"I Didn't Appreciate The Fans Enough" -- Ben Simmons Continues To Build The Bridge Back To Philadelphia
Over the past year and a half or so, we've seen and heard a few things from Ben Simmons that makes it seem like he's done a decent amount of self reflection and growth since his time in Philly.
Everyone can agree that immaturity was probably the biggest factor in his time as a Sixer coming to a disastrous crash and burn. The fans in this city were nothing but supportive to this guy during his time here. The organization coddled him as long as possible, and all they asked is that he at least attempt to work on his shot. But he clearly thought too high of himself to think he needed any improvement in his game, pushed the Sixers organization to the point where Doc Rivers had no other choice but to question whether or not they could win with him as a point guard, quit on the team and forced the fans to resent the shit out of him from there. But it's perfectly normal to be immature at that age, so it's not like that's a total knock on Ben Simmons.
He's had time to grow up a little bit since moving on from the Sixers. And he's also plenty of time to be humbled since his time in Philly. A little slice of humble pie and a little time away has let him see that he actually had a great situation here in Philadelphia. Maybe, juuuuust maybe, a Ben Simmons reunion could be exactly what this team needs right now. If Ben can change, and we can change, then everybody can change.
Don't get me wrong. The guy stinks at basketball now. So he wouldn't actually help the Sixers on the court. But there's just been so much negativity going on in that organization throughout the years. Maybe building back one of those bridges that have burned down could be what they need the most.