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Boomers support Ben Simmons’ decision to back out of World Cup

Aaron Baynes and Chris Goulding speak about the issue.

Australian Boomers’ Aaron Baynes and Chris Goulding have backed Ben Simmons’ decision to pull out of the upcoming FIBA World Cup.

The 23-year-old decided not to take part in the exhibition games against Canada and the United States also, to focus on his upcoming NBA season with the Philadelphia 76ers.

At the launch of Kayo’s basketball World Cup coverage, Baynes supported Simmons decision to focus on his career and what is best for his family.

“You can’t really judge someone until you’ve walked in their shoes,” he said.

“I’m not going to pass any judgment on that. He’s doing what he feels is best and what he feels he needs to do for his career and his family.”

Goulding agreed with the Suns star, saying with the five-year $241 million (AUD) contract extension that Simmons signed this off-season, it’s understandable he wants to focus on Philadelphia’s upcoming season.

“Everyone understands these guys are making a serious amount of money, it’s their livelihood, they can set their family up for the rest of their lives,” he said.

“Of course, some people need to do what’s best for their club but there is no animosity or anything like that because half our team has been through something like that …”

Baynes, Goulding and the remainder of the Boomers squad have also had to deal with the withdrawals of Thon Maker, Ryan Broekhoff and Jonah Bolden as World Cup preparations heat up.

The squad still possesses NBA talent in Joe Ingles, Patty Mills, Matthew Dellavedova, Mitch Creek, Andrew Bogut and Aaron Baynes who will look to win the Boomers first World Cup medal.

Simmons decision to pull out of the tournament has seemingly followed the NBA player path, with Australia’s biggest rivals, the United States, also facing their own struggles in convincing players to commit to the tournament.

Of the 15 players selected in the All NBA teams for the 2018/19 season, only Boston Celtic star Kemba Walker has agreed to play, the other 14 pulling out for various reasons.

The tournament kicks off in China on Saturday 31 August and concludes with the gold medal match on Sunday 15 September.

 

Photo: Ben Simmons By KA Sports Photos available HERE  and used under a Creative Commons Attribution. The image has not been modified.

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