Ben Simmons is even closer to being the next LeBron James

AUSSIE sensation Ben Simmons has been hyped up as the next LeBron James. This move proves just how badly he wants to emulate his hero.

LEXINGTON, KY - MARCH 05: Ben Simmons #25 of the LSU Tigers dribbles the ball in the game against the Kentucky Wildcats at Rupp Arena on March 5, 2016 in Lexington, Kentucky. Andy Lyons/Getty Images/AFP == FOR NEWSPAPERS, INTERNET, TELCOS & TELEVISION USE ONLY ==

LSU star Ben Simmons isn’t going to play in the NCAA postseason, but it appears he’s getting prepared for his future.

The likely No. 1 overall pick in this year’s NBA Draft plans to sign with LeBron James’ Klutch Sports agency, Yahoo Sports reported. Simmons, who hasn’t officially declared for the draft, will be represented by Rich Paul, who represents James, according to the report.

Emily Bush, Simmons’ older sister, has been with Klutch since 2014, shortly after the agency began the recruitment process, according to the report.

After failing to make the NCAA tournament, the LSU Tigers elected not to participate in any postseason tournaments this year, coach Johnny Jones announced on Monday.

With the Tigers bowing out of postseason play, it likely means the end of Simmons’ collegiate career. The freshman phenom is now free to go pro after one season at LSU. Simmons is expected to be the No. 1 overall pick in this year’s NBA Draft, and after missing out on The Dance, his return to LSU is improbable.

Simmons was a bright spot for LSU in a disappointing season.

It’s a fitting end to a frustrating season for the Tigers, who failed to live up to high expectations.

“We will be able to utilise this time to get better and start preparations for next season. We fell short of the mark of getting to the NCAA Tournament; I take full responsibility for this team, and will do the things necessary to make sure we are able to reach one of our main goals at LSU in the future,” Jones said in a statement.

Jones made the decision after consulting with his staff and meeting with his players earlier in the day. He said that losing senior leader Keith Hornsby to injury played a role in his decision to forego the postseason.

“That also factored into our decision, but it is primarily now my responsibility to begin working and preparing our players for the prospects that lie ahead,” said Jones.

The Tigers, who were No. 21 heading into the season, finished with an overall record of 19-14, and 11-7 in SEC play. They suffered a brutal 71-38 loss to Texas A&M in the SEC semi-final on Saturday.

Originally published as Ben Simmons is even closer to being the next LeBron James