Ben Simmons’ answer on potential return to 76ers could make a grown man cry

Former 76ers star and current free agent Ben Simmons is eyeing a return to the NBA, and inquiring minds want to know one thing: would he come back to Philly to play for the team that drafted him? Those without hearts would likely scoff at the idea, but Simmons gave one fan a heartfelt answer that honestly stirred up some emotion in my dark, empty soul.

Ben Simmons would hoop here for free, and I’d welcome him back with open arms:

Fuck, man. I love Ben Simmons so much. I’m tearing up just writing this blog.

I get it, he had one of the worst playoff moments in NBA history and proceeded to essentially flush his career down the toilet in spectacular fashion. As an ardent Simmons supporter, I felt hurt, betrayed, and disrespected by a player I defended in print, on-air, and online.

Hell, one of the first articles I wrote for this website four years ago as a doe-eyed 22-year-old was in defense of Ben Simmons. I was dropping heaters on his haters long ago, and I’ll continue to do so until my dying breath if I have to. So, yeah, he crushed me when he went out like that.

Even so… the hurt came from a place of love. I always knew he could have been more than what he ended up becoming, and his willingness to walk away from the city that loved him broke my heart. I still haven’t fully recovered from it.

But, to me, he deserves the chance to come back. From a basketball standpoint, this team could use a Ben Simmons-type player. To be frank, every team in the league could.

You may still hate Simmons for how his time in Philadelphia came to a close. You may hate that he never took threes. I’m not going to try and change your mind, as you are too consumed by hatred to look upon the damned with love and forgive them. I have no time for you.

But those with full hearts and open minds, please hear my plea. When he is ready, the 76ers should bring Simmons back into the fold. Of course, we need to see real commitment and effort if he’s to come back to the Fighting City of Philadelphia.

Until then, Ben, if you’re reading this. Rest up and get healthy. When the time comes, you will join your brothers in battle and claim your rightful place in Valhalla amongst Philadelphia sports legends.

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