Simmons confirms controversial Olympics decision

The Boomers have confirmed Ben Simmons will not travel to Tokyo after withdrawing from the Australian Olympic Squad.

As expected, the under fire NBA star will seek to add new dimensions to his game following his tumultuous ending in the playoffs for the 76ers.

In a statement, Australian coach Brian Goorjian said he had touched base with Simmons and both men believe it's best the 24-year-old stay behind and focus on his game.

"I have spoken with Ben and whilst we wanted him to be a part of our team, we understand and support his decision and he has made it clear that this is something that he wants to be a part of in the future," Goorjian said.

"It is a pretty rough time for him right now and I know it is something that he wanted to do, but the timing just hasn't worked.

"The best thing for everybody right now is for him to go on and develop that skill package and improve in a couple of areas for his next season in the NBA, but the Boomers are always here for him. We wanted him to know that in his time of need, the culture and the guys here are behind him and support him".

The Boomers have already lost a couple of players from their original 19-man squad with Ryan Broekhoff and Isaac Humphries pulling out.

Simmons' decision means only one player will be cut from the Olympic squad with the Boomers set to to take 16 players to Tokyo.

Boomers teammate Patty Mills shared the same sentiment as Goorjian when asked about Simmons' withdrawal.

"As a teammate, as a fan and as a supporter, we all want to see our best players putting on the green and gold and for me in particular, having that thought even to be able to share the court with Benny at some stage in the green and gold, is something I am always going to look forward to and unfortunately now is not going to be the time, and that is ok." said Mills.  

"This place right here, and the program we have developed, and how strong our culture is, this is one place for him that is always going to be here with open arms because we are mates. We are team-mates, we are a brotherhood and to be able to represent the green and gold, that is the culture that we have."  

For a daily dose of the best of the breaking news and exclusive content from Wide World of Sports, subscribe to our newsletter by clicking here!