Former No. 1 overall draft pick Ben Simmons has inked a one‑year, $3.5 million contract with the Sacramento Kings, the team announced on Friday. The three‑time All‑Star point guard returns to the NBA after sitting out the 2025‑26 season to rehabilitate chronic back problems.
Career background
Simmons, 30, last appeared in an NBA uniform with the Los Angeles Clippers, playing 18 games in March and April of 2025. Drafted by Philadelphia in 2016 out of LSU, he earned Rookie of the Year honors in 2017‑18 and was a two‑time All‑Defensive selection before injuries curtailed his production. Since the 2018‑19 season he has not played more than 58 games in a single year.
Recent health update
Reports from last month indicated that Simmons was healthy, practicing without restrictions and preparing for an NBA comeback. He also hopes to compete for Team Australia at the 2028 Summer Olympics in Los Angeles.
Season outlook
The Kings will open their preseason on Oct. 5 against the visiting Los Angeles Lakers, with the regular‑season opener scheduled for Oct. 21 when Sacramento travels to face the Los Angeles Clippers. Simmons brings career averages of 13.1 points, 7.4 rebounds, 7.2 assists and 1.5 steals over 383 games (344 starts) with the 76ers, Brooklyn Nets and Clippers.
Local fans will be watching closely to see how Simmons contributes to the Kings’ push for a playoff spot this season.
Original reporting: Appleton, WI News Feed (HLL/CB) — read the source article.
