Philadelphia 76ers guard Ben Simmons has announced that he will be playing for the Australian national basketball team in the upcoming FIBA World Cup. He announced the decision on his Weibo page.
“Ni Hao China! Thanks for all the support this season, it was a tough way to go out. I'm happy to say I'm looking forward to representing my country Australia in the upcoming @FIBA World Cup in China! Stay tuned,”
Australia will definitely be one of the best teams in their group, which includes Canada, Senegal, and Lithuania
Simmons will be joining notable Australian players who are also in the NBA, namely Cleveland Cavaliers' Matthew Dellavadova and Detroit Pistons' Thon Maker.
Article Continues BelowThe Sixers just finished their playoff run, which ended in a loss to the Toronto Raptors in the Eastern Conference semi-finals. Simmons' participation in the FIBA World Cup is definitely going to help him stay in shape as he prepares for next season.
The FIBA World Cup is scheduled to take place in China from August 31 to September 15, where Australia, along with 31 other teams will compete to determine the best national basketball team in the world.
The Australians finished 12th in the FIBA World Championships held in Spain last 2014. They have been to the quarter-finals multiple times but has never gotten past that round. Simmons and co. would definitely want to perform better this year, but things are once again going to be tough as powerhouse teams like USA and Spain are expected to send their best players in the tournament.