President Obama Reportedly 'Really Likes Ben Simmons'

PHILADELPHIA (CBS) -- Apparently, the President of the United States is optimistic about the Philadelphia 76ers.

President Obama spoke with American screenwriter, producer, and the "Spike Lee of The Rights To Ricky Sanchez Podcast" Michael H. Weber on Wednesday night.

According to Weber, Obama is a big Ben Simmons fan and likes the direction the Sixers are going in.

Met President Obama last night & we talked 76ers: "Been a tough few years. But I really like @BenSimmons25. It's about to get a lot better."
— Michael H. Weber (@thisisweber) August 3, 2016

(Actually he said "I like Simmons" twice. He added "really" the 2nd time.)
— Michael H. Weber (@thisisweber) August 3, 2016

Weber even asked Obama about the rumors swirling that he is interested in buying an NBA team one day.

After mentioning rumors of him getting involved in owning a team one day I asked, "Can you buy the Sixers?" He laughed, then said, "Maybe."
— Michael H. Weber (@thisisweber) August 3, 2016

Sam Donsky of The Ringer joked that, "President Obama should buy the Philadelphia 76ers, and his first act as owner should be to reinstate Sam Hinkie."

Not satisfied, I then firmly told the leader of the free world, "You should buy the Sixers." He looked at me & smiled, "It could happen."
— Michael H. Weber (@thisisweber) August 3, 2016

It could happen. Yeah, it could happen!

Featured Local Savings

More from CBS News

Joel Embiid sits out as 76ers zip past Nets 107-86

Flyers to honor Wayne Simmonds on ice against New Jersey Devils on Saturday

Phillies' Nick Castellanos trying to stay positive: "Happy people hit better"

Eagles, DeVonta Smith agree to 3-year contract extension