Australian basketballer Ben Simmons keeps going from strength to strength and today posted his best statline of the season to date as Louisiana State University (LSU) claimed a win over North Florida, snapping a three-game losing streak.
LSU won 119-108 over the North Florida Ospreys, but it was Simmons’ remarkable effort of 43 points, 14 rebounds, seven assists, five steals and three blocks on 15-of-20 shooting from the field – 13-of-15 from the line – that will make headlines.
It made him the first player to score 43 points or more in game for LSU since Shaquille O’Neal in 1991.
The Tigers had lost their last three matches coming into the fixture against North Florida, and knew they were coming up against a challenge as their opponents came into the match with a 6-2 record.
The team got off to a slow start and were trailing the Ospreys at half time, however, Simmons lifted his intensity after the break and the team followed his leadership.
The Tigers now improve to a 4-3 record and have won some respect back after copping criticism for failing to live up to expectations in recent weeks.
Simmons was ably supported by teammates Josh Gray and Tim Quarterman, who added a combined 38 points to the score. Every starter for the team scored in double digits.
Already touted as the likely number one pick at the next NBA Draft, Simmons’ performance has made his odds even shorter.
He’s now as low as $1.14 with betting agencies to be the first name called at the 2016 NBA Draft, with the odds of any other player being selected at number one out to more than $5.
Born in Melbourne, Simmons has gained a strong following among basketball fans of both hemispheres as his college performances this season continue to mark him as a future NBA superstar.
LSU’s next fixture will come against Houston on Monday, December 14.
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