Photo by Nathaniel S. Butler/NBAE via Getty Images

Steve Nash Says There’s A ‘Mental Component’ To Ben Simmons’ Absence With The Team

After rumors of his return in their first-round series against the Boston Celtics, former Philadelphia 76ers All-Star Ben Simmons was surprisingly ruled out due to back soreness.

Simmons hasn’t played an NBA game since the 76ers lost to the Atlanta Hawks in last season’s Easter Conference semifinals. With the Brooklyn Nets unable to extend their playoff campaign on Monday’s Game 4, Simmons’ debut with the team is officially delayed until the next NBA season.

ESPN’s Adrian Wojnarowski initially reported that Simmons woke up with back soreness on Sunday after participating in basketball activities during the day before. Adding more insight to Simmons’ situation, Nets head coach Steve Nash cited mental health concerns as a reason for Simmons’ absence.

 “I don’t want to overstate my understanding….I think Ben has addressed that there is a mental component with what he’s going through. But how much and where he’s at with that is not for me to speak about.” 

“We want to help him feel great and be a part of this team.”