“Then mentally it killed me; I was like, f**k,' like, no energy for anything” - Ben Simmons opens up on his struggles facing criticism in Philadelphia, explains the process of liberating from the 'dark place'
Ben Simmons delved into the details of his mental health when he was invited to "The Old Man and The Three," JJ Redick’s podcast. Simmons’ mental health issues became public news after he failed to show up against the Atlanta Hawks in the 2021 playoffs. However, those problems reportedly surfaced way before the series.
Ben Simmons made a sizable impact against the Washington Wizards in the first round, but the following round against the Hawks was brutal. Simmons was reluctant to shoot the ball in the last three games of the series. He attempted only 14 shots, and the Philadelphia 76ers lost Game 7 at home.
Ben Simmons responded to JJ Redick’s question about what really happened after the series, claiming he had no support from the people he expected it from. Simmons said:
“It was just a lot. It was a toll on me and then mentally it killed me. I had no energy for anything, I was in a dark place and it took me a long time. Then mentally it killed me; I was like, f**k,' like, no energy for anything”
Simmons missed all of the 2021-22 season. He held out for a trade from the 76ers and later said he was dealing with back and mental health issues. After being traded to the Nets in February, He never played for Brooklyn and eventually underwent back surgery. He continued:
“The first thing for me was to really like identify, OK, I got to get right and it's not a physical thing, it's mental. And just, I think that first thing of acknowledging it is, like, a huge step for me."
Ben Simmons was eventually traded to the Brooklyn Nets for James Harden, but did not play for the Nets either due to a back injury. Simmons is expected to suit up for the Nets in the upcoming season, having now reached a better place mentally. He said:
“I'm like in a great place, and I feel comfortable talking about it now, but those are some dark days for me. I think that was tough for me just knowing, like, I didn't really have that support either from teammates.”
Outlook for Ben Simmons with the Brooklyn Nets in the 2022-23 season
Simmons' probable return is one of the hot topics leading up to the start of the 2022-23 season. He reportedly went through the necessary procedures for his back issues, but there is no official statement on whether he’s ready to go.
Ben Simmons says this is finally the year he will start to attempt more three-pointers. complex.com/sports/ben-sim…
The Nets suggested Simmons would return during their series against the Boston Celtics in the 2022 playoffs. But he remained on the bench as his team got swept. However, Simmons is considered an important piece for Brooklyn to compete next season. It is also unlikely that Kevin Durant agreed to stay without confirmation on his status.