Ben Simmons parting ways with Klutch Sports

ESPN’s Ramona Shelburne reported that it was a mutual parting, with a source saying Simmons “needed a fresh start.”

Klutch represented Simmons for his whole NBA career. He missed her first season with an injury after Philadelphia took him with the No. 1 pick, but won Rookie of the Year in 2018 and made the All-Star team from 2019-21.

His agents helped him sign a max extension in 2019, but recently Simmons has struggled with injuries and personal issues. When Simmons refused to play in the 2021-22 season, his agents had to navigate his trade demands and the massive fines Philadelphia levied in his absence.

Simmons hasn’t played since the All-Star break, due to a combination of knee and back injuries. Coach Jacque Vaughn expects him to return this season, even as he’s struggled to find a place for Simmons with Nic Claxton entrenched at center.

While Simmons will be looking for a new agent, there’s no immediate need. His contract runs through 2025, and unless he wants to force his way out of Brooklyn, he doesn’t need an agent anytime soon.

The biggest result? Now that he’s not a client of Klutch Sports, the sports agency run by LeBron James’ agent and friend, there will be far fewer rumors about Simmons going to the Lakers.