Sources told ESPN that Ben Simmons, the 76ers All Star guard, reported to the Wells Fargo Center in Philadelphia Monday night after being absent for the first two weeks.
Sources said that Simmons took a COVID-19 exam in the arena while the Sixers were playing the Brooklyn Nets. To clear Simmons for his return to the NBA, he must first pass a series of tests.
Sources said that Simmons' arrival was the culmination of several weeks-long discussions between Simmons and Klutch Sports CEO Rich Paul to get Simmons back in the market.
Simmons, who hoped to accelerate a trade, was well on his way to more than $1 million in lost salary. He also missed Monday's game against The Nets. Simmons, 25, still has four years of his contract and $147 millions.
Sources said that Simmons hadn't spoken to the team since an August meeting in Los Angeles, in which he reiterated his desire to trade. Simmons had recently been more open to the idea of reporting to Philadelphia and ending his time away. However, he will now have to commit to returning to the city as well as rejoining the team on court.
Sources said that the Sixers searched the league for deals during the offseason, but were unable to find one that would allow them to trade a star comparable to Joel Embiid. Sources said that although Simmons' return would likely bring about trade discussions, Doc Rivers, president of basketball operations, and Daryl Morey, president of basketball operations, are optimistic about convincing Simmons to stay long-term.
