Report: Simmons speaks with 76ers, not ready to play yet

Disgruntled Philadelphia 76ers star Ben Simmons spoke to head coach Doc Rivers, co-star Joel Embiid and the entire team Friday and said he is not mentally ready to play yet and needs some time, according to Shams Charania of The Athletic.

Sources: Ben Simmons spoke to Doc Rivers, Joel Embiid and entire 76ers team today and accepted everyone needs to take responsibility, including himself — but Simmons informed them all that he’s not mentally ready to play yet and needs time.

— Shams Charania (@ShamsCharania) October 22, 2021

Charania tweets that Simmons "accepted everyone needs to take responsibility, including himself."

Simmons was suspended from Philadelphia's season-opener after being asked to leave practice earlier in the week. Multiple reports indicate Simmons refused to participate in a defensive drill, leading to Rivers to ask Simmons to leave. 

More to come.