Former first-overall draft selection Ben Simmons is poised for a return to the hardwood, having finalized a one-year, $3.5 million agreement with the Sacramento Kings. This move signals a fresh start for the accomplished point guard after a year-long absence from the sport.
Ben Simmons Returns to NBA with Sacramento Kings
In a significant development for the NBA, Ben Simmons, a former top draft pick and three-time All-Star, has officially committed to a one-year, $3.5 million contract with the Sacramento Kings. This announcement, confirmed by his representatives to ESPN on a recent Friday, marks his much-anticipated comeback to professional basketball. Simmons, now 30 years old, spent the entirety of the 2025-26 season on the sidelines, focusing on recovery from a persistent back condition. His last competitive appearance was in March and April of 2025, where he played 18 games for the Los Angeles Clippers.
Recent reports from the previous month indicated Simmons' complete recovery, highlighting his unrestricted participation in practice sessions and his clear intent for an NBA resurgence. Beyond his immediate club aspirations, Simmons also harbors ambitions to represent Team Australia at the 2028 Summer Olympics, slated to be held in Los Angeles. Drafted first overall by the Philadelphia 76ers in 2016 following his tenure at LSU, Simmons' NBA journey began with a delayed debut a year later, where he subsequently earned Rookie of the Year honors for the 2017-18 season. He was recognized twice as an All-Defensive team member, showcasing his versatility before a series of injuries impacted his career trajectory. Since the 2018-19 season, he has not managed to play more than 58 games in any given season. Throughout his career, spanning 383 games (344 starts) with the 76ers (2017-21), Brooklyn Nets (2022-25), and Clippers, Simmons has maintained impressive averages of 13.1 points, 7.4 rebounds, 7.2 assists, and 1.5 steals. The Sacramento Kings are scheduled to kick off their NBA preseason on October 5, hosting the Los Angeles Lakers, and will commence their regular season on October 21 with an away game against the Los Angeles Clippers.
Simmons' return offers a compelling narrative of resilience and determination. His journey back from injury not only brings a high-caliber player to the Kings but also underscores the relentless pursuit of excellence that defines professional athletes. His presence could significantly bolster the Kings' lineup and provide a fascinating storyline for the upcoming NBA season, as he aims to reclaim his elite form and contribute to both his club and national team success.
