Are the Brooklyn Nets really trading Ben Simmons to the Golden State Warriors? Viral report investigates
Ben Simmons currently plays for the Brooklyn Nets in the NBA. Drafted first overall by the Philadelphia 76ers in 2016, he has struggled with significant challenges, including injuries and mental health issues that have affected his performance and playing time.
Since joining the Nets in February 2022, Simmons has been battling a herniated disc in his back that required multiple surgeries and resulted in limited court appearances. He only appeared in 15 games during the 2023-2024 season and averaged 6.1 points, 7.9 rebounds and 5.7 assists per game, a significant decline from his previous career statistics.
Recently, rumors circulated online that the Nets had traded Simmons to the Golden State Warriors. According to a supposed NBA insider, Aaron Rosenberg of ESPN, a viral post read: “BREAKING: Brooklyn Nets trade Ben Simmons to Golden State Warriors, sources tell ESPN.”
However, after investigating the source on X (formerly Twitter), it turns out that @aaronespn is a parody account, so the claim is false – Brooklyn did not trade Simmons to the Warriors.
Rosenberg’s bio clearly indicates that his account is meant to be satirical: “ESPN NBA Insider succeeds the legendary Adrian Wojnarowski. We bring you the latest and most accurate NBA news, transfers and updates. •Parody/Satire.”
If we focus back on the parody post, it’s clear why it fooled some people. Adrian Wojnarowski, the well-known ESPN reporter known for his breaking news reports or “Woj Bombs,” has announced his retirement from ESPN. Rosenberg’s report, written in the veteran analyst’s style, sounded familiar to readers and gave him credibility.
At 55, Wojnarowski is leaving ESPN after seven years to become general manager of the men’s basketball program at his alma mater, St. Bonaventure. He expressed his excitement for the opportunity, saying, “It is a once in a lifetime experience to return to a university and community I love and serve our student-athletes, coaches and our institution. I hope to add value to our basketball program and provide opportunities for our young men both professionally and personally.”
Ben Simmons is reportedly set to return to full play with the Brooklyn Nets for the 2024-2025 NBA season. After enduring several tough seasons with injuries, including a pinched nerve in his lower back, Simmons has completed rehab and is focusing on strength and conditioning. His agent confirmed that Simmons is in excellent physical shape and is expected to enter the season fully healthy, which is a marked improvement from his previous issues.
Despite his injury history, Simmons remains a key player when healthy. Last season, he averaged 6.1 points, 7.9 rebounds and 5.7 assists despite playing limited minutes. The Nets will likely manage his playing time carefully to avoid further injuries as they continue their rebuild. His performance this season will be critical to both his career and the future of the Nets as he looks to regain his All-Star status and make a meaningful contribution to the team.
ALSO READ: Antoine Walker reveals LeBron James waited for hours during summer training to play with Michael Jordan
