Ben Simmons recently opened up about his time with Jimmy Butler on the Philadelphia 76ers during the 2018-19 NBA season, sharing how Butler’s intense and direct leadership left a lasting impression on him. Speaking on The Old Man and the Three Podcast, Simmons praised Butler’s ability to hold teammates accountable, describing how that mentality pushed him to elevate his game.
“For me, having JJ and playing with Jimmy, personally, I love teammates like that. I want him to tell me ‘Yo, stop bullsh***in. Stay aggressive,’ Whatever it is. It’s just part of the game. You want to be with competitive guys, they just want to win. They’re a little intense but it is what you need sometimes.”
"Having JJ and playing with Jimmy, personally I love teammates like that. I want him to tell me 'Yo, stop bullsh*ttin' — Ben Simmons on playing with Jimmy Butler & JJ Redick in Philly pic.twitter.com/3Na2r6Ks2I
— TheYoungManAndTheThree (@OldManAndThree) January 25, 2025
Jimmy Butler joined the 76ers midway through the 2018-19 season in a blockbuster trade, immediately transforming the team into a legitimate contender.
His leadership and on-court production propelled the Sixers to the third seed in the Eastern Conference, with Butler averaging 18.2 points, 5.3 rebounds, and 4.0 assists during his time in Philadelphia. In the playoffs, Butler stepped up further, posting 19.4 points per game and taking on a clear leadership role.
His vocal and competitive nature also helped Simmons, then a rising star in his second season. Butler’s influence wasn’t limited to his own performance. Simmons, then in his sophomore season, also thrived. Simmons put up 16.9 points, 8.8 rebounds, and 7.7 assists per game, shooting an efficient 56.3% from the field.
He earned his first All-Star selection and displayed his two-way versatility, solidifying his role as one of the NBA’s most dynamic young players.
Butler’s demand for accountability helped Simmons remain aggressive, particularly in critical moments and solidified his reputation as one of the league’s premier young talents. Simmons reflected on how Butler’s intensity helped him grow.
The 76ers looked poised to make a deep playoff run in 2019, bolstered by a star-studded lineup that included Simmons, Butler, Joel Embiid, and Tobias Harris. They pushed the eventual champion Toronto Raptors to a thrilling seven-game series in the Eastern Conference Semifinals.
Game 7 culminated in one of the most iconic moments in NBA history: Kawhi Leonard’s buzzer-beating, corner fadeaway shot that sent Philadelphia home and the Raptors to the Conference Finals.
Despite the crushing loss, the series underscored the potential of a Butler-led Sixers squad. However, Butler’s stint in Philadelphia was short-lived. That offseason, he signed with the Miami Heat, citing philosophical differences with the 76ers’ organization.
In the years following Butler’s departure, Simmons achieved notable success, earning two more All-Star selections and being named to the All-NBA Defensive First Team twice. He also finished second in Defensive Player of the Year voting in 2021. However, his relationship with the franchise soured after a disastrous playoff exit that year, marking the start of his tumultuous departure from Philadelphia.
Jimmy Butler’s leadership style has often been misunderstood, with some labeling him a difficult teammate. However, players like Simmons appreciate Butler’s no-nonsense approach. Butler’s ability to challenge teammates, instill a winning mentality, and demand excellence continues to define his career.
Butler’s legacy as a leader transcends the controversies. For players like Ben Simmons, his demanding yet empowering presence remains a pivotal chapter in their development.
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