What many expected became official Thursday night. LSU forward Ben Simmons was drafted #1 overall in the NBA draft by the Philadelphia 76ers.

After finally agreeing to meet and workout for Philadelphia late last week, Simmons was a virtual shoe-in for the top pick in the draft.

"It's amazing. I'm happy the Sixers chose me," said Simmons. "It's an amazing city and I'm happy to be in Philly."

The 6'10, 240 lb. 19 year old put up good stats in his lone season at LSU, but the team didn't make the NCAA Tournament, failing to reach expectations.

Despite LSU's disappointing play with Simmons, it wasn't enough to hurt his draft stock. When Simmons signed to play collegiately with the Tigers, he was already expected to be the top pick in the 2016 NBA Draft.

While his outside shooting needs improvement, his rebounding, ball handling and passing ability are fantastic. He's able to lead fast breaks and look for teammates.

He joins a Philadelphia team that has finished near or at the bottom of the league standings the last 3 years.

The 76ers are coming off a 10-72 season in which general manager Sam Hinkie stepped down days before the end of the regular season.

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