NBA18 min ago2 minute read

Ben Simmons Rejects Basketball Critics in Kings Return

Ben Simmons is back in the NBA with the Sacramento Kings, shutting down critics who claimed he does not love the game.

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Simmons addresses his critics

Ben Simmons is back in the NBA after signing a 3.5 million dollar deal with the Sacramento Kings. The 30 year old Australian guard sat out all of last season to focus on his physical and mental health after suffering persistent back and leg injuries.

During his year away, Simmons bought a controlling stake in a professional sport fishing team and did not touch a basketball. This drew heavy criticism from people who claimed he no longer loved the sport. Simmons has now hit back at those claims.

"All these people talk about how I don't love the game, that's bull****," Simmons told reporters. "I love this game. If I didn't, I wouldn't have taken that year to focus on myself and get back to where I'm at."

Ready to dominate

The former number one overall draft pick and three time All Star last played for the Los Angeles Clippers in April 2025. He worked on his return in August by flying to a player driven Boomers camp in Melbourne, where he impressed scouts.

Now signed to a one season veteran league minimum contract, Simmons is highly confident about what he can achieve in Sacramento. He wants to show everyone that he is ready to play hard.

"To dominate. Every time I step on the floor, to dominate," Simmons said when asked about his goals. He added that he feels great and has no limitations on his play.

Playing without pressure

The Kings have struggled in recent years, finishing last season with a 22-60 record. The team has only made the playoffs once since 2006. Simmons believes this lack of external expectation will help the roster.

He explained that there is no pressure on the team because people do not expect anything from them. He believes the current roster is capable of winning games and proving people wrong.

A successful season could also help Simmons secure a spot with the Australian national team for next year's FIBA World Cup in Qatar and the 2028 Los Angeles Olympics.

What it means for the next game

Los Angeles Lakers at Sacramento Kings (NBA, Tue, 06 Oct): Sacramento Kings win 30%, Los Angeles Lakers win 70%; projected score Sacramento Kings 112, Los Angeles Lakers 118. Our safest pick: Lakers +2.5.

Sacramento Kings at Los Angeles Lakers (NBA, Fri, 09 Oct): Los Angeles Lakers win 80%, Sacramento Kings win 20%; projected score Los Angeles Lakers 121, Sacramento Kings 109. Our safest pick: Lakers to win.