Ben Simmons files grievance against 76ers to recoup $20 million in withheld salary

Ben Simmons' messy divorce from the Philadelphia 76ers isn't quite over yet. The three-time All-Star point guard filed a grievance against his former team, according to a report from ESPN, with nearly $20 million of withheld salary set to be challenged.

Simmons, 25, was traded to the Brooklyn Nets in February after a months-long standoff with the 76ers that began in the 2021 offseason. Philadelphia claims he breached his contract by not showing up to training camp and holding out from participating in regular season games. Simmons, who requested a trade in August 2021, cited mental health and back tightness as reasons for his absence.

The team was reportedly frustrated that Simmons was hesitant to meet with team doctors and 76ers-recommended mental health specialists.

After months of fines levied against Simmons for his prolonged absence, he was finally traded to the Nets in a deal that sent James Harden to Philadelphia.

Simmons has not yet made his debut with the Nets due to a herniated disc in his back. According to Shams Charania of The Athletic, Simmons has resumed light workouts with the possibility of a return in time for the postseason.