Simmons looking forward to competing for Australia at 2020 Games
As Philadelphia 76ers head coach Brett Brown reportedly finalizes a deal to coach Australia at next year's Olympics, it appears he'll have his star player with him.
Ben Simmons says he plans to play for the Boomers at the 2020 Tokyo Games if he's healthy.
"I'm excited," Simmons said, according to ESPN's Tim Bontemps. "I'm looking forward to it. He's coaching me now, so we have a great relationship. I've known him my whole life. I'm excited to put together a great team."
However, the former No. 1 overall pick had a similar tone leading up to last summer's FIBA World Cup before ultimately backing out from international duties.
Simmons previously represented the Aussies at the 2012 FIBA U17 World Championship and 2013 FIBA Oceania Championship.
The Boomers are coming off back-to-back fourth-place finishes at the 2016 Olympics and 2019 FIBA World Cup.
Australia is expected to compete for a medal in Tokyo. The country's roster could feature multiple NBAers including Joe Ingles, Patty Mills, Aron Baynes, and Matthew Dellavedova.