Like most people, Philadelphia 76ers star Ben Simmons has a favorite emoji in his repertoire.
Some people like to use the “100” emoji to say “keeping it 100” or “keeping it real.” Some like to use the laughing emoji simply because it shows they find something funny. Simmons’ favorite emoji, though, is used as part of his game prep.
With World Emoji Day happening Friday, Simmons said on a video from the Sixers’ Twitter account that his favorite emoji is the one where steam is coming out of the nose.
He regularly tweets the emoji before games, as if to let fans know he’s ready to play. He also makes a similar expression during and following dunks to show his passion.
We heard it was #WorldEmojiDay…😤😤😤 pic.twitter.com/9t38sdkfe9
— Philadelphia 76ers (@sixers) July 17, 2020
The Sixers will need Simmons to be in that steam-coming-out-of-nose mode during the Orlando restart. He’s at his best when he’s attacking defenses downhill, with his 6-foot-10, 230-pound frame allowing him to bully opponents. Also, with his quickness, he’s hard for slow-footed bigs — and even some wings — to stay in front of.
Add on a jumper that’s been more prevalent in practice, and Simmons could end up being the Sixers’ most valuable player in the playoffs. The move to playing more power forward should open the floor for him and the rest of the team.
The Sixers will play their first seeding game Aug. 1 against the Indiana Pacers.
[lawrence-related id=34767,34774,34791,34732]