But that was a rare well-known name to the crowd at the time, as Papagiannis went 13th to Phoenix – climbing out of a crowd in the stands near the concourse level surrounded by Greek flags – with Spain’s Juan Hernangomez going 15th to Denver, and Boston selecting Guerschon Yabusele of France at No. 16.
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No, the only emotions the 6-10, 242-pound multi-talented forward from LSU felt was a sense of nervousness, followed by relief.
“So I couldn’t say anything back”.
Meanwhile, 76ers president Bryan Colangelo said he expects Simmons to become his team’s centrepiece. He is headed to Philadelphia and glad of it.
“I’m happy to be part of the family now”, Simmons said. “It is a weight off my chest”.
With Simmons in the fold, Joel Embiid participating in a 5-on-5 controlled scrimmage earlier this week, according to Brown, and news about Saric possibly buying out his Turkish contract to play here expected soon, Brown understands that expectations are about to increase from a team that went 47-199 over the past three years.
Simmons, though, was the prize and the large contingent of Philadelphia fans roared its approval as Silver made the announcement.
Labissiere, who played with Murray at Kentucky, barely sneaked into the first round after being considered a potential lottery pick.
It didn’t take Iverson long to reach out to Simmons. I know how to get the ball to big guys in low.
That’s only fitting, since Simmons idolized Iverson growing up.
“I’ve known coach Brett my whole life since I was a baby, so having that relationship there is huge knowing he’s a great person and a great coach”, he said. “Last time I played was three months ago, so to have it on just felt good”.
“I talk about the young, developing core”.
“I’ve learned a lot just being around LeBron”, Simmons said.
Simmons averaged 19.2 points, 11.8 rebounds and 4.8 assists and posted 23 double-doubles in his lone season at LSU. He averaged 17.3 points and 6.8 rebounds as a freshman under Mike Krzyzewski this past season, showcasing a well-rounded offensive game, solid outside shot and elite athleticism. Dunn was a two-time Big East Player of the year and defensive player of the year.
“It is a great city and I’m looking forward to getting to the Philly”, Simmons, with a 76ers cap on his head, told ESPN. “And we will grow from there”.
“I am a 6-10 point guard”.
The latest move in “The Process” is complete. Center Skal Labissiere, who coach John Calipari proclaimed could have been the No. 1 pick in a few years had he returned to school, dropped to No. 28, where a trade had him headed to the Kings. Jerry Colangelo was brought in as the chairman of basketball operations and Hinkie eventually resigned in April.
Anything you want to do, you can do, honestly. We’ve all worked really hard.
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After some anxious moments, Simmons said he can’t wait to get started.
