No return to Philly for former Sixers star Ben Simmons. See where he signed – delawareonline.com
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**No return to Philly for former Sixers star Ben Simmons**
Philadelphia, PA – The 76ers community has been left with one more bittersweet reality: Ben Simmons, the once‑promising guard‑forward who was drafted by the franchise in 2016, will not be back in Philly. After a tumultuous tenure that saw him lead the team in assists, steal attempts, and defensive impact, Simmons has signed with the Detroit Pistons, cementing his status as a free‑agent trade piece rather than a home‑coming hero.
Simmons’ departure comes after a series of challenging seasons. In 2022‑23, the Sixers’ front office announced a trade deadline move that sent him to the Pistons in exchange for a future draft pick and a roster spot. The decision, confirmed by the Pistons’ front office, marked the end of a 7‑year stint that included 5 seasons in the NBA and 3 years with the Sixers. Fans who watched Simmons guard the perimeter, orchestrate the offense, and occasionally hit a deep three‑pointer will remember his leadership in the 2021‑22 playoffs, when the 76ers pushed the Milwaukee Bucks to a hard‑fought series.
While the 76ers’ management has expressed appreciation for Simmons’ contributions, they also acknowledged the need for a roster that can compete for a championship. The franchise’s coaching staff has shifted focus to a younger core, including Tobias Harris, James Harden, and the rising star of the team, who are expected to carry the offensive load in the upcoming season.
For Simmons, the move to Detroit represents a fresh start. The Pistons, looking to rebuild and develop a new identity, will rely on his play‑making and defensive instincts to mentor a younger roster. Fans in Detroit will welcome a player who can both create and defend, potentially filling a void left by recent departures.
The 76ers’ fan base will still feel the absence of Simmons’ presence on the court, but the franchise’s commitment to its new direction remains clear. As the 76ers prepare for a new chapter, the city will keep an eye on the Pistons, hoping to see how Simmons’ talents translate into a different environment.
