Ben Simmons (Photo : Mike Stobe | Getty Images Sport)
Ben Simmons college career is over as LSU failed to make the cut for the NCAA Tournament.
The school will not accept any other invitations for post-season tournaments which means that Ben Simmons is free to go and focus on his highly anticipated entrance into the NBA.
The Australian hoops phenom already took an essential step to signify his pro aspirations by hiring an agent. As Adrian Wojnarowski of Yahoo Sports reports, he chose no less than LeBron's agent.
"LSU freshman star Ben Simmons, a possible No. 1 overall NBA draft pick, plans to sign with the LeBron James-funded Klutch Sports agency for his pro representation, league sources told The Vertical," Woj reported. "Rich Paul of Klutch Sports will serve as Simmons' agent."
It was also revealed that Simmons' older sister has been an employee of Klutch Sports since 2014. Her employment coincided with the start of LeBron James and Paul's recruitment efforts on Ben as a possible client in the future.
Simmons has been projected as an all-around player who can rebound, handle the ball, pass and drive to the basket. However, he lacks the one skill that has become the most important in the NBA the past two years-shooting.
This is only one of the reasons why Fansided believes that Simmons should not be the no.1 pick, even though he has been at the top of 2016 mock drafts for the past two years.
While Simmons is a good defender and rebounder at the rim, he is a weak perimeter defender, as Fansided mentions that despite his steal and rebound numbers, "Ben Simmons is not even an average perimeter defender."
Ironically, Simmons versatility which was his greatest strength is now also a weakness. He lacks the power and strength to be an NBA power forward but he would not be quick enough to chase and defend guys like Kevin Durant or Harrison Barnes. His undefined position may put him at a disadvantage, especially if he falls to a coach who cannot utilize him well.
There is also the issue of shooting, which is now a must for the NBA as even centers like DeMarcus Cousins are developing a three-ball shot. All of these are valid concerns but Simmons is still an outstanding basketball player, but the biggest reason why he might not be no.1 is Brandon Ingram.
Ingram may not have his overall skills, but the Duke forward is a cut and dry swingman who has a strong perimeter game and the size and length to cover anyone at the position. If a team with a definite need at the position gets to pick no.1, they might violate the "best player available" adage and go for Ingram.
Zach Lowe, in one of his podcasts did mention something about Ingram. He admits he does not watch college basketball but an NBA scout told him that despite all of Simmons' ballyhooed shortcomings, "we should not doubt his 'transformational skills.'" If a team needs a franchise level player who could turn their overall fortunes around, Simmons is still the best bet.
