In a move that solidifies his return to the NBA, former Philadelphia 76ers star Ben Simmons has signed a one-year contract with the Sacramento Kings. The announcement came on September 4, marking a significant step for Simmons, who has been away from the league for an extended period.
The contract, valued at $3.5 million, is a pivotal moment for Simmons as he aims to revitalize his career after a challenging few seasons. The three-time All-Star had a brief stint in the league, playing only 18 games during the 2024-2025 season, which raised questions about his future in professional basketball.
Prior to this signing, Simmons had expressed his determination to return to peak physical condition. In a June interview with Men's Health, he detailed his rigorous training regimen, which included two and a half to three hours of weightlifting and body work, complemented by hour-and-a-half basketball sessions. He aimed to regain full strength by his 30th birthday on July 20, a goal that seems to have motivated him during his time away from the court.
During his hiatus from basketball, Simmons explored other interests, notably professional sport fishing. His fishing team, the South Florida Sails, achieved notable success by winning the Sport Fishing Championship Blue Marlin Open in the Bahamas. Reflecting on his experiences, Simmons remarked on the unexpected joy he found in fishing, stating, "Who would’ve thought we’d be on ESPN for some fishing?" He has also been working with specialists regarding his back and knee, reporting that he is feeling better than he has in a long time.
Simmons' time with the 76ers came to an abrupt end following a tumultuous playoff run in 2021. His struggles with free-throw shooting became a focal point during the playoffs, culminating in a controversial moment during Game 7 against the Atlanta Hawks. With the game on the line, Simmons passed up an open dunk, opting instead to dish the ball to teammate Matisse Thybulle, a decision that has since been etched into the annals of Sixers' history.
After that playoff exit, the relationship between Simmons and the 76ers soured, leading to his trade request the following offseason. He was subsequently traded to the Brooklyn Nets in exchange for James Harden, where he spent parts of three seasons before concluding his time in the league with the Los Angeles Clippers.
Throughout his four seasons with the 76ers, Simmons averaged 15.9 points, 7.7 assists, 8.1 rebounds, 1.7 steals, and 0.7 blocks per game. His early career was marked by significant promise, but injuries and off-court issues have overshadowed his potential. As he embarks on this new chapter with the Sacramento Kings, fans and analysts alike will be watching closely to see if Simmons can recapture the form that made him a top draft pick in 2016.
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