Ben Simmons’ Paris Olympic Hopes Dashed by Back Surgery
Injury sidelines NBA star from Paris 2024
Australian basketball star Ben Simmons has suffered another setback in his bid to represent his home country at the Paris 2024 Olympics, as he continues to recover from back surgery. The Brooklyn Nets point guard was not included in the extended 22-man squad announced by the Australian Basketball Federation, as he remains on the sidelines due to the ongoing injury.
Simmons’ Olympics aspirations
Simmons has never played at the Olympics for Australia, but had previously expressed his desire to compete in Paris before his recent injury. The 27-year-old is a key member of the Australian team and was expected to play a significant role in their quest for a medal.
Team Australia’s squad
Despite Simmons’ absence, the Boomers still boast a strong squad, featuring several NBA-based players. Ten members of the team that won bronze at the Tokyo 2020 Games have been included, including Patty Mills, Joe Ingles, Josh Green, Dante Exuma, and Jock Landale.
- Patty Mills (Brooklyn Nets)
- Joe Ingles (Milwaukee Bucks)
- Josh Green (Dallas Mavericks)
- Dante Exuma (Sydney Kings, NBL)
- Jock Landale (Phoenix Suns)
Coach Goorjian’s outlook
Coach Brian Goorjian expressed confidence in the potential of the squad, saying, “We’ve been actively monitoring the Aussie players across international leagues in U.S., Europe, and Asia as well as domestically in the NBL. We’re confident in the potential chemistry of this list.”
Olympic journey
Australia will play in Group A at the Paris Games, with their only confirmed opponent so far being Canada. The other two teams will come from qualifying tournaments scheduled in Greece and Spain.
The Boomers will open their campaign against the Spain qualifier on July 27th. The men’s gold medal final is scheduled for August 10th at the Bercy Arena in Paris.
Mehek