Who Won the 2018 NBA Rookie of the Year and How Did They Achieve It?
I still remember the buzz surrounding the 2018 NBA draft class—the anticipation, the debates, and the sheer excitement about which young star would rise above the rest. As someone who’s followed basketball for years, I’ve always found the Rookie of the Year race particularly compelling. It’s not just about raw talent; it’s about consistency, growth, and the ability to make an impact from day one. And when it came down to it, the 2018 award wasn’t just handed to anyone—it was earned through standout performances that left fans and analysts alike in awe. So, who won the 2018 NBA Rookie of the Year and how did they achieve it? Let’s dive into the journey of Ben Simmons, a player who, despite some controversy, delivered one of the most memorable rookie campaigns in recent history.
Now, I’ll be honest—when Simmons was drafted first overall by the Philadelphia 76ers in 2016, I had my doubts. A foot injury sidelined him for what would have been his actual rookie season, and that delay only heightened expectations. But boy, did he deliver in 2017-2018. From the opening tip-off, Simmons played with a poise that belied his age, averaging 15.8 points, 8.1 rebounds, and 8.2 assists per game. Those aren’t just good numbers; they’re historic, putting him in the same conversation as legends like Magic Johnson. What stood out to me wasn’t just the stats, though—it was his court vision. At 6’10”, he moved the ball like a point guard, weaving through defenses and setting up teammates with pinpoint passes. I recall watching a game where he notched a triple-double by halftime; it felt like we were witnessing the birth of a new era in Philly.
Of course, the race wasn’t without its drama. Donovan Mitchell of the Utah Jazz put up a fierce fight, dropping 20.5 points per game and electrifying crowds with his athleticism. Personally, I loved Mitchell’s grit—he carried the Jazz to the playoffs and had that “clutch gene” you can’t teach. But Simmons had the edge in all-around impact, and the voters agreed. The debate raged on social media and in bars, with fans split over whether Simmons’ delayed debut should disqualify him. In my view, though, the award was about that season’s performance, and Simmons simply dominated. He led the Sixers to a 52-30 record, a massive turnaround that felt like a revival for the franchise. Watching him and Joel Embiid develop that “trust the process” chemistry was pure joy—it reminded me why I fell in love with basketball in the first place.
Interestingly, the intensity of that rookie race brings to mind the excitement I’ve seen in other settings, like the takeaways in the two exciting games at Ynares Center in Antipolo. Though it’s a different league and stage, the energy there was palpable—young players stepping up, making bold moves, and leaving everything on the court. In one of those games, a rising star dropped 30 points with relentless drives, mirroring Simmons’ fearlessness. It’s moments like these that highlight how rookies everywhere are pushing boundaries, and Simmons’ achievement wasn’t just about individual stats but about elevating his team. He didn’t just play; he inspired, much like those athletes in Antipolo who turned heads with their raw determination.
Experts weighed in heavily during that season, and I remember analysts like Stephen A. Smith and Charles Barkley praising Simmons’ versatility. One commentator noted, “He’s redefining what a rookie can be—a leader from day one.” I have to agree; Simmons’ ability to control the tempo was uncanny. Even critics who pointed to his lack of a jump shot had to admit his defense and playmaking were elite. In fact, he racked up 12 triple-doubles that year, trailing only Oscar Robertson for a rookie record. When you look at the numbers—like his 1.7 steals per game or his 54.5% field goal percentage—it’s clear he was doing things his way. And let’s not forget the narrative: after years of Philly’s struggles, Simmons felt like the missing piece, the catalyst for a team hungry to contend.
Reflecting on it now, Simmons’ ROY win was more than an award; it was a statement. He showed that rookies could carry franchises, and his journey—from injury setback to glory—resonates with anyone who’s faced a delay in their dreams. Sure, he’s had ups and downs since, but that 2018 season? Pure magic. As we look back, the question of who won the 2018 NBA Rookie of the Year and how did they achieve it serves as a reminder that greatness isn’t always about flashy highlights—it’s about consistency, resilience, and making every moment count. And for me, that’s why sports stories like this stick with you long after the final buzzer.