Ben Simmons feels like an unknown kid from Australia all over again as he prepares to make his NBA debut, a year later than expected.
The 21-year-old, who missed last season with a broken foot, believes he will soon be back on people's radar as he attempts to lead Philadelphia out of the wilderness.
"They'll remember," Simmons told reporters at the 76ers' media day.
"I came to the States when I was 15.
"Nobody knew who I was. So I feel like I'm back at that stage and I've got to prove myself again, which is fine.
"I'm looking forward to that part."
Doubts remain over the 2016 No.1 draft pick's strength, fitness and scoring prowess after a full season on the sidelines, highlighted by some pundits viewing him as an outsider for rookie of the year.
The 208cm Simmons will start the 2017-18 season at point guard, with rookie No.1 overall pick Markelle Fultz joining him in the backcourt.
Simmons, from Melbourne, said he's been dominating five-on-five at practice after using the year off to steel himself mentally and physically.
"It feels normal to me. There's not really many people who can guard me off the dribble the full length of the court," he said.
"There's potential to be a great leader, and I believe that.
"I believe I can lead this team, even if I'm one of the youngest guys on the team."
"Compared to last year, I'm a much better player. It's not even close."
Simmons has declared himself 100 per cent fit ahead of Tuesday's start to training camp, where he broke his foot last year.
Sixers coach Brett Brown said the Melbourne-born Simmons has been dominating in the gym.
Simmons spent part of his off-season in Australia, where he still has a large number of family and friends.
The country could even inspire some of the 76ers play this year, he indicated.
"Sport over there, it's not very individual orientated," Simmons told 76ers media.
"So for me to come out here and play, I think I carried that play style from Australia to the States and I think it just turned out to work for me."
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