Patty Mills Hopes Ben Simmons’ LA Clippers Move Facilitates Olympic Return
Patty Mills, a seasoned NBA veteran, sees a glimmer of hope following the arrival of Ben Simmons at the Los Angeles Clippers. The move of Simmons to the Clippers, coupled with Mills’ own move to the same team, could potentially open doors for Simmons to join the Australian national team, the Boomers, and compete in the 2028 LA Olympics.
“It’s always been a goal of mine to have Ben in the green and gold for the Olympics and major tournaments,” Mills tells Guardian Australia. “I think this can be a great and refreshing start for Ben and I’ll help him in any way I can.”
The Clippers Sign Simmons, Mills
The Clippers officially welcomed Simmons after he secured a contract buyout from the Brooklyn Nets. His arrival comes just a week after Mills was traded from the Utah Jazz to join the Clippers. Both players are now part of a playoff-contending team led by superstars Kawhi Leonard and James Harden.
Patty Mills has joined the Los Angeles Clippers in his 16th season in the NBA.
Photograph: Gary A Vasquez/USA Today Sports
Mills, a 16-year NBA veteran, expressed his excitement about the potential for a stronger connection with Simmons, especially given their recent experience playing together on the Brooklyn Nets.
Simmons’ NBA Journey and Olympic Goals
Simmons, 28, has faced numerous challenges in his NBA career. He initially made a promising start with the Philadelphia 76ers, earning Rookie of the Year in 2017 and a $177 million contract a year later. Despite his talent, his reluctance to shoot and a series of injuries cast doubt on his future in the league.
Traded to the Brooklyn Nets in 2021, his tenure there was marked by more setbacks, including a lackluster offensive performance and further injuries. These issues simmered until his recent contract buyout, paving the way for his move to the Clippers.
The Clippers: A Fresh Start
Mills, known for his ability to shoot and play alongside top-tier talent, sees a revitalizing environment with the Clippers. The team, under the leadership of Ballmer, offers Simmons a chance to start anew amidst an environment where collaboration and hard work are highly valued.
“Ben’s presence is so big, long and athletic he can guard anyone on the floor and he can make passes that no one else can make,” Mills says.
Patty Mills has an eye on LA 2028 after leading Australia’s Boomers to two Olympic Games.
Photograph: Mark J Terrill/AP
The Clippers’ sophisticated training facilities and ballroom-like locker rooms, a result of Ballmer’s investment in the Intuit Dome, provide Simmons with a dynamic and supportive atmosphere to hone his skills.
Mills’ Secrets to Longevity
At 36, Mills continues to thrive in the NBA, crediting his success to a strict routine including the consumption of a specially formulated orange juice mix and collagen booster, along with a triple espresso pre-game caffeine hit.
Mills emphasizes the importance of staying healthy and adapting to different teams, which has kept him playing at a high level despite changing NBA landscapes.
Looking Ahead to 2028
The Intuit Dome in LA will host the 2028 Olympics, creating a unique opportunity for both Mills and Simmons if they secure spots on the Australian team. Mills believes their potential partnership at the Clippers could bridge the gap between Simmons and the national team.
While the future remains uncertain, the Clippers represent a promising chapter for both players, setting the stage for potential success in professional basketball and the Olympics.
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Conclusion
The potential for Ben Simmons to join the Australian national team is now more viable than ever. With Mills by his side at the Los Angeles Clippers, the door to Olympic glory seems to be opening. Could the Big Apple be the setting for a historic team effort in LA 2028?
Whether or not Simmons’ Olympic journey takes an unexpected turn, one thing is clear: Patty Mills remains committed to guiding him every step of the way.
