Credit: AFP – Scanpix
Credit AFP – Scanpix

Philadelphia 76ers All-Star Ben Simmons will not report for the opening of training camp next week and intends to never play another game for the franchise, according to Adrian Wojnarowski of ESPN.

Simmons hasn’t spoken to the team since a late August meeting when he communicated this message to Sixers officials.

Per the report, Simmons is clearly aware of sanctions available to the organization to fine and suspend him, including withholding of salary. But so far, Simmons appears willing to carry out a plan of forcing his way to a new team. Sixers have yet to find a trade they’re willing to make for him.

The 25-year-old Australian player has 4 years and $147M left on his contract.

Simmons was involved in trade rumors last season when the Sixers were among the teams eager to make a move for James Harden. The downfall of the relationship between Philadelphia and Simmons, though, started right after Game 7 of the Eastern Conference semifinals against the Hawks. After that loss, both Doc Rivers and Joel Embiid weren't satisfied with Simmons' performance during the series and took shots at him in the post-game press conference.

During the last regular season, Simmons averaged 14.3 points, 7.2 rebounds, and 6.9 assists per game.

His NBA career averages are 15.9 points, 8.1 rebounds, and 7.7 assists in 275 contests.

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