76ers' Ben Simmons confirms he's skipping Olympics

ESPN's Brian Windhorst reported last week that Philadelphia 76ers guard Ben Simmons would not play for Australia in the upcoming Olympics held in Tokyo, Japan, so that he could work "on skill development" following disappointing playoff performances. 

Simmons has now confirmed he's skipping the Summer Games. 

According to an ESPN piece, Australia coach Brian Goorjian explained in a statement that he supports the decision. 

"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," Goorjian said. "We wanted him to know that in his time of need, the culture and the guys here are behind him and support him." 

Simmons shot 34.2% from the free-throw line during the playoffs, and 76ers president of basketball operations Daryl Morey and general manager Elton Brand have had discussions with Simmons' agent, Klutch Sports CEO Rich Paul, about the 24-year-old's future amid rumors Philadelphia could trade him this summer. Simmons still has four years and $147 million left on his current contract, and betting odds have linked him with an exit from the Sixers.