Ben Simmons NASHVILLE, TN – MARCH 11: Ben Simmons #25 of the LSU Tigers dribbles the ball during the game against the Tennessee Volunteers during the quarterfinals of the SEC Basketball Tournament at Bridgestone Arena on March 11, 2016 in Nashville, Tennessee. (Photo by Andy Lyons/Getty Images)

The Philadelphia 76ers have reportedly informed prospect Ben Simmons that he’s their top choice with the first overall selection ahead of Thursday’s NBA draft, reports Chris Haynes of the Cleveland Plain Dealer.

Simmons surprisingly decided to workout for the 76ers on Tuesday morning after previously saying he wouldn’t work out for any teamMarc Stein of ESPN.com reported the workout was a strong indication that Simmons and his agent Rich Paul received a promise to be the first pick in this week’s draft. Haynes’ report further confirms the speculation.

The following Instagram post from Simmons seems to indicate he’s at peace with the fact that he’ll be a Sixer come Thursday.

Trust the process

A photo posted by Ben Simmons (@bensimmons) on

The 76ers are making the right decision if the reports are correct. Simmons is a hybrid forward who possesses incredible athleticism. He’s gifted both offensively and defensively and can be slotted in at virtually any position. Simmons is effectively a point forward. While he doesn’t shoot the ball well from the three, he’s a tenacious scorer, an excellent rebounder, and a smooth passer for his 6-10 size.

The 19-year-old has the most potential in the NBA draft class this year, and has a superstar ceiling. His one-and-done season at LSU didn’t go as planned, as his team failed to qualify for the NCAA Tournament, but Simmons is still a tantalizing talent. Duke’s Brandon Ingram might be a more finished product right now than Simmons, but the 76ers are clearly impressed with Simmons’ long-term profile.

While Philadelphia will be drafting its third top-three pick in the last three seasons, Simmons should give them their first franchise player. Add in oft-injured Joel Embiid and Croatian star Dario Saric, and 76ers fans have plenty to look forward to in 2016-17.

About Liam McGuire

Social +Staff writer for The Comeback & Awful Announcing. Liammcguirejournalism@gmail.com