So sudden! The NBA first overall pick might retire! He was once considered the next LeBron James.

Reporter Bondy from the New York Post reported,Simmons has drawn attention from two teams including the Knicks, but it’s uncertain if he personally wishes to keep playing...

Indeed, Simmons, born on July 23, 1996, and currently just 29, may be considering ending his career.

NBA Memes from US media expressed: “This guy was once predicted to be the next LeBron James, but now he plans to end his career at just 29.”

As the first overall pick in 2016, Simmons has played 8 seasons in the NBA, earning roughly $200 million in salary, appearing in 383 regular season games with 344 starts, averaging 31.1 minutes, 13.1 points, 7.4 rebounds, 7.2 assists, and 1.5 steals per game, with shooting percentages of 55.8%, 13.9%, and 59.2% respectively; in playoffs, he played 39 games with 34 starts, averaging 31.6 minutes, 12.2 points, 7.2 rebounds, 6.6 assists, and 1.2 steals, shooting 56.7%, 0%, and 52%.

Standing 2.08 meters tall with exceptional athleticism, capable on both ends and a playmaker, his best comparison is indeed LeBron James. However, Simmons never developed his shooting, suffered from injuries, and faced serious mental health issues, which ultimately caused him to fade away and fail to meet the high expectations placed on him.

The turning point in Simmons’ career came during the 2021 Eastern Conference semifinals, Game 7 against the Hawks, when he passed instead of attacking an open basket in the crucial final quarter. Since then, he has faced enormous public criticism and his physical condition deteriorated badly, leading to a steep decline. Remember, this guy was still an All-Star four years ago.

He missed the entire 2021-22 season and only played 108 games over the next three seasons combined.

Throughout his NBA career, Simmons’ main achievements include Rookie of the Year in 2017-18, one All-NBA Third Team selection (2019-20), two All-Defensive First Team honors (2019-20, 2020-21), one steals title (2019-20), and three All-Star appearances (2018-19, 2019-20, 2020-21), among others.

Nothing much left to say, just wishing him the best. Whether he retires or returns to the NBA, he no longer makes waves.