Ben Simmons Still Refusing Help From Sixers To Handle "Mental Readiness"

 

The Philadelphia 76ers are becoming "increasingly frustrated" with Ben Simmons, as he continues to refuse help from the team for his self-stated "mental readiness" issue. 

According to ESPN's Ramona Shelburne, Simmons has been working with mental health professionals provided by the players association since the summer, but he's refusing to communicate the details of those sessions with the Sixers or their own team mental health doctors. 

Shelburne says sources indicate that Simmons will report on his progress "once he is comfortable doing so."

Ben Simmons has not accepted any off-court help from the 76ers and there's no timetable for his return, sources have told @ramonashelburne.

"There is frustration mounting." pic.twitter.com/0DqunuUoZx

— NBA on ESPN (@ESPNNBA) November 2, 2021

The Sixers have been paying the disgruntled guard again, since he finally reported to camp after a holdout at the beginning of training camp that cost him nearly $2 million in fines. But if he continues to refuse to talk to the team about how his "mental readiness" is coming along, it's possible they could have an avenue to begin fining him again, for failure to cooperate with team doctors and officials. 

The frustration continues to mount with the Philly faithful as well. It's getting to the point that Simmons can't even get a haircut in town.

My barber told me someone who works with the Sixers organization wanted to bring Ben Simmons to the barbershop.

“I told him hell no! He can’t come here.”

Another barber: “He can offer me $1,000 and I still wouldn’t cut his hair. I don’t want his money.”

Philly is different.

— Damichael Cole (@DamichaelC) November 2, 2021

The ESPN report does state that "Simmons has engaged with teammates and members of the coaching staff in one-on-one scenarios but has not advanced to rejoin full team activities."

Shelburne says there is "no timeline" for his return. 

Photo Credit: Bill Streicher-USA TODAY Sports