Ben Simmons is making significant strides in his quest to return to the NBA, recently participating in a player-led minicamp for the Australian men’s basketball team without any restrictions. This week’s training sessions have reignited discussions about Simmons, particularly regarding his shooting abilities, a topic that has long been a source of scrutiny and humor among basketball fans.
Once celebrated as the first overall pick in the 2016 NBA Draft, Simmons was recognized for his exceptional defensive skills and playmaking abilities, standing tall at 6-foot-10. However, the 30-year-old has faced numerous challenges over the years, including injuries and mental hurdles, which have contributed to a noticeable decline in his performance on the court.
Throughout his career, Simmons has struggled with his three-point shooting, managing a dismal 5-for-36 (13.9%) from beyond the arc. Despite his impressive physical attributes and past accolades as a three-time All-Star, his inability to make significant improvements in this area has led to widespread skepticism, particularly when offseason training videos circulate online.
After missing the entire 2025-26 season due to a back injury, Simmons is eager to make a comeback. Reports indicate that multiple NBA teams are interested in him, and he is open to signing a minimum contract. According to ESPN's Marc J. Spears, there is a non-guaranteed offer on the table for Simmons to join a Western Conference team for training camp.
This week, Simmons showcased his skills alongside fellow Australian players like Josh Giddey, Dyson Daniels, and Jock Landale. Footage from the minicamp, which went viral on social media, showed Simmons making a jump shot, a moment that should have been a cause for celebration. Instead, it prompted a wave of mockery from the NBA community, with fans taking to social media to express their disbelief and skepticism.
One Australian fan page humorously remarked, "The annual Ben Simmons offseason jump shot video," while another user questioned, "How is this still happening in 2026??????" These comments reflect a long-standing joke within the basketball community about Simmons' shooting prowess, or lack thereof. A Philadelphia 76ers supporter chimed in, saying, "I see this every year and get fooled every year," highlighting the cyclical nature of Simmons' offseason narratives.
Despite the ridicule, Simmons remains only 30 years old, leaving him ample time to turn his career around if he can maintain his health and continue to develop his skills. In the 2024-25 season, he played 51 games with the Brooklyn Nets and Los Angeles Clippers, averaging 5.0 points, 4.7 rebounds, 5.6 assists, 0.7 steals, and 0.5 blocks per game while shooting 52.0%. As he prepares for the upcoming season, the basketball world will be watching closely to see if he can finally silence his critics and reclaim his place in the league.
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