Ben Simmons, back in NBA with Sacramento Kings, now knows a life without basketball
Andscape • • sports
Key Points:
- Ben Simmons made his NBA return after nearly 18 months, playing nine minutes in the Sacramento Kings' 111-106 preseason loss to the Golden State Warriors, scoring seven points and adding an assist.
- Simmons, who took time off to recover from back and knee injuries and mental health challenges, described the game as "a new start" and expressed excitement about returning to basketball.
- The Kings signed Simmons to a one-year, $3.5 million contract after he impressed at an Australian national team minicamp and a workout in Miami, with other teams showing interest but not offering contracts.
- Simmons is expected to increase his playing time in upcoming preseason games and start alongside rookie Darius Acuff in the regular season opener against the Los Angeles Clippers.
- ESPN's documentary "Being Ben," premiering October 18, explores Simmons' basketball journey, personal struggles, and passion for fishing, featuring interviews with former coaches and teammates.
