Former 1st Overall Pick Ben Simmons Eyeing NBA Return

Ben Simmons is officially eyeing an NBA comeback. After spending the past year away from basketball and diving into professional fishing, the former All‑Star told Men’s Health that he plans to return to the league this summer. Simmons said he wants to get back on the court, get healthy, and prove to teams that he can still contribute at a high level.

He explained that his goal is simple: get as strong as possible, get back into basketball shape, and let teams see that his skill set is still valuable. Simmons even floated potential destinations, saying he would consider returning to Philadelphia or joining Miami because of his respect for Erik Spoelstra and the Heat organization.

Ben Simmons Says Injuries, Not Confidence, Derailed His Career

Simmons pushed back on the long‑standing narrative that confidence issues ended his time in Philadelphia. He said the real problem was physical, pointing to a pinched nerve in his back in 2020 that caused pain in his lower back and legs.

According to Simmons, basic basketball movements became difficult. Rebounding, dunking, defending, and absorbing contact all felt nearly impossible. He said he was essentially playing as “just a body” on the court.

A Complicated Journey Through Philadelphia, Brooklyn, and Los Angeles

After the infamous 2021 playoff moment against Atlanta, Simmons demanded a trade and sat out until he was dealt to Brooklyn in February 2022. He missed the entire 2021‑22 season and played only 90 games over the next three years with the Nets.

He later joined the Los Angeles Clippers for a brief stint in the 2024‑25 season, appearing in 18 games before stepping away again. In December, he purchased a majority stake in the South Florida Sails Angling Club, competing in the Sport Fishing Championship.

Why Teams Might Still Be Interested

At his peak, Ben Simmons was one of the most unique players in the NBA. A three‑time All‑Star, he was an elite defender, a high‑level playmaker, and a force in transition. His lack of a jump shot limited him in the halfcourt, but his size, athleticism, and defensive versatility made him a major asset.

If Ben Simmons is healthy and willing to sign for the veteran minimum, he could be an appealing option for teams looking for defense, rebounding, and secondary playmaking off the bench.

Simmons Says He Still Loves Basketball

Despite the ups and downs, Ben Simmons insists his passion for the game never disappeared. He told Men’s Health that basketball is in his DNA and that he wants to return because he chooses to, not because anyone is pushing him.

He also said he’s ready to move past the negativity that has surrounded his career in recent years. In his words, he wants to get back to making teammates better, defending at a high level, and impacting the game the way he knows he can.

What Comes Next

Ben Simmons plans to train throughout the summer and hopes to earn a roster spot before the 2026‑27 season. If he can stay healthy and regain even part of his former form, his comeback could be one of the most intriguing storylines of the offseason.