Philadelphia 76ers star Ben Simmons says Los Angeles Clippers superstar Kawhi Leonard set the tone for him to become a better defender.

Leonard dominated Simmons and basically any Sixers defender which tried to guard him in the 2019 playoffs. That seven-game series which the Sixers lost on a Leonard buzzer beater still resonates with Simmons, via Ky Carlin of Sixers Wire:

Leonard averaged 34.7 points on 53% shooting in those seven games against the Sixers and it was how he got those baskets that really upset the Sixers. It was almost too easy for him the entire series and Ben Simmons used that as motivation to become a better defender.

“Definitely,” said Simmons at practice ahead of Tuesday’s matchup with Leonard and the Los Angeles Clippers. “It set the tone for me. That was the last time I played him. I just tried to carry that energy and consistency to now.”

Article Continues Below
More Philadelphia 76ers News
Detroit Pistons forward Tobias Harris (12) during game five of first round for the 2025 NBA Playoffs at Madison Square Garden.
Tobias Harris clowns Paul George, 76ers for post-Super Bowl strugglesRichard Pereira ·
Paul George and Ace Bailey on the 76ers court.
76ers’ Paul George doubles down on support for Ace Bailey in 2025 NBA DraftMatty Breisch ·
Philadelphia 76ers guard Quentin Grimes (5) reacts after scoring against the Chicago Bulls in the fourth quarter at Wells Fargo Center.
NBA rumors: Are Nets a threat to steal 76ers’ breakout star?Zachary Weinberger ·
Featured image 76ers Paul George
76ers’ Paul George reveals Philly fans heckled him with Tobias Harris insultsDylan Fine ·
Philadelphia 76ers center Joel Embiid (21) and forward Paul George (8) high five during the second half against the Portland Trail Blazers at Moda Center.
76ers rumors: Philly’s draft trade strategy reiterated by Marc SteinBenedetto Vitale ·
Baylor Bears guard VJ Edgecombe (7) passes the ball away from Mississippi State Bulldogs forward Cameron Matthews (4) during the second half in the first round of the NCAA Tournament at Lenovo Center.
Ranking 3 best VJ Edgecombe destinations in 2025 NBA DraftSpencer See ·

Simmons may not have a jump shot yet, but there's no denying he's an All-NBA defender. The former Rookie of the Year can basically guard positions one through four, which makes it easier for the Sixers to play defense since they can essentially switch everything in the pick-and-roll.

After defeating the Chicago Bulls on Sunday, the Sixers are now 33-21 on the season. They are in fifth place in the Eastern Conference standings.

Simmons is averaging 16.8 points, 7.9 rebounds and 8.3 assists on the season in 52 games.