Simmons cruises as Fultz hits his straps

BEN Simmons contributed with a double-double while Markelle Fultz had 10 points and eight rebounds in his first NBA game since October in the Philadelphia 76ers’ 123-104 defeat of the Denver Nuggets yesterday.

Simmons had just seven points but pulled down 13 rebounds and provided 11 assists as Philadelphia edged to fourth in the Eastern Conference. The Sixers and their fans wanted No.1 draft pick Fultz to play and after five often confusing months they got him. The first selection of the 2017 draft shot an airball, had three shots blocked and artfully attacked the lane, flashing glimpses of what has made him both a mystery project and prominent prospect.

With Philadelphia having clinched a playoff berth for the first time since 2012, Fultz decided the time was right to return from an injured shoulder and shattered confidence that had cost him all but four games of his rookie season. Fultz sparked the 76ers at times in a reserve role, adding eight assists in a 14minute cameo.

“It was his decision,” coach Brett Brown said. “It’s been fluid. I get goosebumps telling you all that. I’m so proud of him. The people around him have done great things. I give that kid credit.”

Joel Embiid had 20 points and 13 rebounds, including perhaps his dunk of the season on a one-handed jam over Paul Millsap while Dario Saric added 20 points. Will Barton led Denver with 25 points.

Wayne Selden scored 23 points, Marc Gasol had 20 points, 10 rebounds and six assists as the Memphis Grizzlies surprised the Minnesota Timberwolves 10193. The Grizzlies won for just the second time in 25 games.