Ben Simmons takes big step towards NBA debut with 76ers

GET excited Australian basketball fans. Ben Simmons took a huge step towards his highly-anticipated NBA debut in Philadelphia today.

Not long now.

THE most anticipated in NBA debut in history — at least among Australian and probably quite a few Philadelphia 76ers fans — is edging closer.

Ben Simmons, the prodigy who along with this year’s Rookie of the Year favourite Joel Embiid has been hailed as the saviour of one of basketball’s worst-performing teams, took a huge step forward today.

The hype has been building in Philly with every appearance by the 20-year-old from Melbourne. A few days ago anticipation went into overdrive when Simmons joined in pre-game warm-ups for the first time.

. @BenSimmons25 with the Sixers for pregame warmups (he's not playing). pic.twitter.com/H7XPWrloPt

— Jessica Camerato (@JCameratoCSN) January 6, 2017

It grew a little more when this footage of Simmons completing some nifty footwork made its way online.

It's you Sunday morning Ben Simmons workout. #Sixers at @BrooklynNets Noon. pic.twitter.com/7AhkczbOGg

— Nick M Broadcast (@SportsDirectTV) January 8, 2017

But today was an even bigger step. According to reports out of Philadelphia, Simmons took part in basic five-on-zero drills in practice.

Sixers coach Brett Brown told reporters the number one pick in last year’s draft completed the session, which he described as very light, at about 80 per cent. But that didn’t take away from his excitement at having Simmons back on court.

“The gym got a lift,” said Brown, according to The Philadelphia Inquirer. “You could feel it.”

Embiid, who is averaging more than 19 points and seven rebounds this season after failing to play a game in his first two years with 76ers because of foot problems, was also boosted by the Aussie’s appearance.

“We played him as a point guard today,” said Embiid, according to Comcast SportsNet Philadelphia. “I think that’s how they’re trying to grow him. I’m excited to see how he develops into that.”