Brooklyn Nets star Ben Simmons suffered an embarrassing moment at a fans practice session when he attempted and air-balled a close-range jump-shot.
The Australian former first-overall draft pick has had a difficult 18 months, being away from basketball after refusing to play for his former team the Philadelphia 76ers. Simmons cited mental health issues as the reason he had 'not been ready' to take the floor with his teammates.
In an interview with former teammate JJ Redick, Simmons had stated that he asked the Sixers for help, however, he was continuously fined for refusing to play - making him the most fined player in NBA history. Simmons and the Sixers have since settled a deal after the former filed a grievance to recoup around $20million (£17m) which he was fined.
Whilst struggling last season, the former number one overall pick was traded to the Brooklyn Nets for fellow superstar James Harden. However, he would not play after being diagnosed with a herniated disc before having the aforementioned surgery. But now, he has returned to full health and has played alongside his new teammates in pre-season.
During an open training session this week, the Nets players practiced in front of their fans on an outdoor facility in New York City. In the warm-ups, Simmons was recorded shooting what looked to be a close-range jump-shot and he horrendously air-balled the attempt, as he did not get close to scoring.
Simmons has never been a strong shooter, and has been ridiculed for his attempts, as he has previously passed up attempts to shoot wide open shots, choosing instead to pass.
The Ringer's Kevin O'Connor has argued that the Australian shoots with the wrong hand. Interestingly, Simmons is seemingly right-handed in all other aspects of his game, but strangely shoots with his left-hand - an uncommon trait in the NBA.
Whilst the 26-year-old does struggle shooting, he remains an excellent defensive player and one of the better passers in basketball, and is expected to thrive alongside fellow superstars Kevin Durant and Kyrie Irving.
