Meet Australian NBA Star Ben Simmons — Facts about His Career, Childhood, and Personal Life

Australian basketball player Ben Simmons has become one of the most talented basketball players and has been named NBA All-Star in 2019 and 2020. Here's an insight into his career and personal life.

Born in July 1996, Ben Simmons has consistently proven his worth and made his presence felt on the basketball court at just 24.

Simmons, who was born and raised in Melbourne along with his five siblings, started nursing his love for the court at an early age. His father, Dave Simmons, turned up for the Australian National Basketball League with the Melbourne Tigers.

The 24-year-old began playing basketball at age 7. He played for the U-12 representative team for the Newcastle Hunters. Although he loved basketball, that did not stop him from trying himself at other sports like rugby.

While in his early teens, Simmons was undecided between choosing one of his two loves — basketball and Australian rules football — but he later decided to focus on basketball.

Simmons gained attention when, at the age of 15, he was chosen to represent Australia at the 2012 FIBA Under-17 World Championship. At that point, he became touted for great things on the court.

In 2016, Simmons became the third Melbourne-born #1 overall pick in 11 years after he was chosen as the Philadelphia 76ers number one overall pick.

That has not stopped the 24-year-old from voicing his concerns about racism.

Although his start with the team was marred by poor shooting performance, Simmons was praised for his skills and awareness. He went on to receive the All-Las Vegas Summer League First Team honors.

Simmons' career became noticeable after a period of mixed reviews. He became the only player in NBA history to begin a season with at least 170 points, 100 rebounds, and 80 assists in his team's first ten games.

Off the court, Simmons has enjoyed the spotlight for his love life. The talented star reportedly dated model Kendall Jenner, from 2018 to 2019. Their relationship was a great subject of interest to the public.

The Philadelphia 76ers star man and the supermodel Jenner cooled things off after a source revealed that their relationship had run its course.

Earlier this year, it was reported that the duo were just friends after being pictured hanging out together. Sources close to them admit their mutual admiration for each other, but the ex-couple reportedly wields no interest to be exclusive yet.

Back on the court, Simmons' Philadelphia 76ers might not be having the best of times, but that has not stopped the 24-year-old from voicing his concerns about racism, which he says he is uncomfortable about.

Simmons, whose father is of African descent, reportedly launched the anti-racism initiative, "Do More" alongside fellow Aussie athletes Nick Kyrgios and Nic Naitanui, among others, in fighting discrimination in Australia. The athlete hopes that his steps are enough to contribute to the global fight.