Report: Philadelphia 76ers have informed Ben Simmons that he will be no. 1 pick in NBA Draft

Feb 20, 2016; Knoxville, TN, USA; LSU Tigers forward Ben Simmons (25) dribbles the ball in front of Tennessee Volunteers forward Kyle Alexander (11) at Thompson-Boling Arena. Mandatory Credit: Randy Sartin-USA TODAY Sports
Feb 20, 2016; Knoxville, TN, USA; LSU Tigers forward Ben Simmons (25) dribbles the ball in front of Tennessee Volunteers forward Kyle Alexander (11) at Thompson-Boling Arena. Mandatory Credit: Randy Sartin-USA TODAY Sports /
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With the 2016 NBA Draft right around the corner, the Philadelphia 76ers have reportedly informed Ben Simmons that he will be the first overall pick.

We have been seemingly heading down this path ever since the Philadelphia 76ers won the draft lottery, but it now appears to be a sure-thing. Ben Simmons will reportedly be the first overall pick in the 2016 NBA Draft, according to Chris Haynes of Cleveland.com.

This should not be a surprise to anyone, as Simmons has long been considered the likely number one choice in the 2016 draft class no matter who held the top pick. That being said, some in the industry believe the raw upside and ability of Brandon Ingram would make him the better choice at number one.

It seemed to at least be a question until now.

Simmons is a 6-foot-10 forward with elite-level play-making skills with the ball in his hands. He is an incredible passer who can also create his own shot with consistency.

Simmons needs to work on his outside shot at the next level, and some consider his defense to be an issue. That being said, his ability to rebound at a high-level and make plays on the offensive side of the court make Simmons a strong candidate to star for the 76ers right away.

If he comes into the NBA and learns how to hit his outside shot with any sort of consistency, look out.

Ingram is not the over-whelming favorite to go second to the Los Angeles Lakers, with the draft really heating up with what the Boston Celtics decide to do at number three.

The 2016 NBA Draft will take place on this Thursday, June 23rd.

For more NBA Draft coverage, be sure to check out our NBA Draft hub page.