Ben Simmons, the former NBA All-Star and first overall pick in the 2016 draft, has announced plans to return to the NBA after sitting out the entire 2025-26 season. In an interview published on June 29, ahead of the start of the league’s free agency period, Simmons expressed interest in resuming his basketball career and indicated the Miami Heat as a potential destination.
Simmons, an Australian forward standing 6-foot-11, last appeared in professional basketball during the 2024-25 season with the Los Angeles Clippers, participating in 18 games after being bought out by the Brooklyn Nets. Now 29 and turning 30 next month, Simmons spent the prior season away from basketball, turning his attention to professional fishing. In December 2025, he became a co-owner and angler for the South Florida Sails, a team competing in the Sport Fishing Championship. He participated in the team’s victory at the Blue Marlin Open in the Bahamas in May.
“I plan on getting as strong as I can physically, getting my (butt) on the court, and then the team realizing that my abilities will be needed,” Simmons said regarding his comeback ambitions. While he remains open to various opportunities, he specifically mentioned both Miami and a possible return to Philadelphia as destinations of interest, citing his respect for Heat coach Erik Spoelstra and the organizational culture in Miami.
Simmons’ NBA career began with high expectations following his selection by the Philadelphia 76ers. Known for his defensive prowess and versatile playing style as a point-forward, Simmons struggled to consistently contribute offensively due to limitations in outside shooting. His career was further hampered by injuries, missed games, and an extended holdout during the 2021-22 season, which sidelined him entirely.
Over the last five seasons, Simmons featured in more than 50 games only once, and his production declined as a result. In his last NBA season, he averaged 5 points, 4.7 rebounds and 5.6 assists per game between his stints with the Nets and Clippers. Career statistics include averages of 13.1 points, 7.4 rebounds, and 7.2 assists per game on 55.8% shooting.
Simmons is currently an unrestricted free agent, having completed the five-year maximum contract extension he signed with Philadelphia prior to the 2024-25 season. Following his buyout with Brooklyn, multiple coaches reportedly have indicated that teams would consider bringing him back if he can demonstrate sufficient health and readiness.
His foray into professional fishing has drawn attention from the sports world, with notable athletes such as PGA Tour golfer Scottie Scheffler also involved in the circuit. Simmons acknowledged the unexpected visibility of his fishing pursuits, saying, “Who would’ve thought we’d be on ESPN for some fishing?”
As the NBA free agency period opens, Simmons’ potential return will be closely watched by teams and fans alike, eager to see whether the former top pick can rediscover his form after a year away from the league.