Simmons pays tribute to New Zealand following mosque attacks
Philadelphia 76ers star Ben Simmons shared a heartfelt message to New Zealand following the mass shooting at two mosques in the city of Christchurch on Friday.
Simmons, who was born in Melbourne to an Australian mother and American father, wrote "pray for NZ" on the shoes he wore in the 76ers' win over the Sacramento Kings.
Simmons spoke about the tragedy after the game:
Ben Simmons with a touching statement on the New Zealand tragedy, a place he says is close to his heart.
— NBC Sports Philadelphia (@NBCSPhilly) March 16, 2019
He had "pray for New Zealand" written on his game shoes as a reminder of those affected. pic.twitter.com/JsZkIzI2Cb
At least 49 people were killed and more than 20 seriously wounded in what New Zealand prime minister Jacinda Ardern described as a "terrorist attack," according to Mike Corder of the Associated Press. A 28-year-old man was arrested and charged with murder in connection with the attack.