Former No. 1 overall pick Ben Simmons last played in an NBA game during the Los Angeles Clippers’ first-round playoff defeat to the Denver Nuggets last season, where he was on the court for under five minutes and posted zero points, one rebound, and one block. Following his release from the Brooklyn Nets in February, Simmons joined the Clippers for the rest of the season, finishing with just 18 appearances.
Thoughunsigned during the offseason and aiming for an NBA comeback, Simmons has recently dedicated much of his time to professional fishing. He shared with Andscape that he trains twice daily in basketball and focuses on strength and rehab six days a week, hoping to return to the league without a specific timeline. Simmons envisions possibly rejoining a team around the All-Star break or next season but emphasized he wants to contribute meaningfully rather than occupy a roster spot without impact.
He said, “It’s not just about joining the team. If I played now, my skills would fit the NBA well, but I want to give my all to the game. Wasting a spot just to play would be selfish, which some are doing now, but that’s the nature of the business.”
Alongside his rigorous training, Simmons has taken on ownership of a professional fishing team, the South Florida Sails, participating in the Sport Fishing Championship League. The league includes 16 teams from 11 states competing in a series of tournaments culminating in a championship.
Describing fishing as a unique and demanding sport, Simmons expressed admiration for its skill and subtle challenges, noting the grueling nature of long days on million-dollar boats. Although not an active team member due to his fishing skills, he remains deeply involved as an owner, committed to growing the sport and building a fishing community in Miami.
Simmons acknowledged that he hasn’t faced setbacks in his NBA recovery journey, but noted he hasn’t played more than 60 games since his second season, with last season’s total at 51 games between the Nets and Clippers. Despite likely never returning to the peak form that earned him accolades for defensive prowess and playmaking, Simmons remains determined to keep trying.
He concluded, “We’re curious because we’re human. This story isn’t over for me yet, and as long as I put in the work and energy, the rest will fall into place.”
Fan Take: Ben Simmons’ journey is a compelling mix of resilience and reinvention, highlighting how athletes can pivot their passions while aiming for a comeback. For basketball fans, his potential return represents both a test of perseverance and a chance to witness whether he can reclaim the impact that once made him one of the game’s most dynamic players.
