Philadelphians excited about No. 1 draft pick Ben Simmons

EAKINS OVAL (WPVI) -- It wasn't a surprise, but Sixers' fans went wild nonetheless. Confetti fell as it became official - Ben Simmons is coming to Philadelphia.

"I think he's just the best player in the draft. He has a lot of talent. Really physical," said Seth Arinsberg of Cheltenham.

About 4,000 people at the draft party, which took place Thursday night in Eakins Oval, enjoyed free food and games and hearing Sixers legends. Before the pick, Dr. J spoke about his hopes for a new era led by a rookie.

"We have a history of having these types of players who can come in and change things," said Julius Erving, former Sixer.

Basketball Hall of Famer Allen Iverson says fans have been waiting long enough.

"We deserve it. As Sixer fans, we deserve excitement," said Allen Iverson, former Sixer.

And after a season of only winning 10 games, fans are counting on the 19-year-old forward to usher in change.

Move over Ben Franklin, there's a new Ben in town.

"The city needs this. It's been a lot of down years," said Kim Brown of Penns Grove, New Jersey. "And as you can see, the crowd and the city is behind 100 percent."