Australian basketball player Ben Simmons’ attempt to revive his NBA career has suffered a significant setback after tearing his right Achilles tendon during Sacramento Kings practice, just days before the team’s season opener. The 30-year-old guard, who signed a one-year contract with the Kings this year, will undergo surgery and is expected to miss the entire season as a result.

Simmons’ injury occurred during a live drill on Monday, ending his much-anticipated comeback after an extended absence from professional basketball. The Melbourne-born athlete had been absent from the NBA for 538 days, during which he pursued interests outside basketball, including competing in America’s professional fishing league, where he owns a franchise stake.

Once regarded as one of the league’s most promising talents, Simmons was the first overall pick in the NBA draft, earned Rookie of the Year honors, and was a three-time All-Star. However, his career has been plagued by injuries and mental health challenges in recent years. Following a turbulent period that included a difficult departure from the Philadelphia 76ers and injury issues affecting his back and knees, Simmons had appeared ready to return to form.

After attending a pre-season Australian training camp in early August and reportedly showing excellent physical condition, Simmons signed with the Kings in September for $4.9 million. He had also expressed his intent to represent Australia at the upcoming FIBA World Cup. His promising pre-season performance earned praise from several NBA veterans, including Dwight Howard, Dirk Nowitzki, and Blake Griffin, who highlighted Simmons’ unique skill set and potential impact.

Despite the latest injury, Simmons remains determined to continue his career. In an emotional statement posted on Instagram, he acknowledged the difficulties he has faced but affirmed his commitment to recovery. “This injury is another chapter in my journey, not the end of my story,” he wrote, emphasizing his resilience in overcoming past challenges both mental and physical.

Simmons’ NBA career trajectory has included stints with the Philadelphia 76ers, Brooklyn Nets, and Los Angeles Clippers, although injuries and other issues limited his impact during those years. He sat out the entire 2021-22 season dealing with mental health and physical concerns and was released by the Clippers before sitting out last season entirely.

The extent of Simmons’ recovery remains to be seen, but given his age and history, there is cautious optimism that he can return to professional basketball in due course. For now, the focus will be on rehabilitation and the hope that this latest setback is a temporary hurdle in his ongoing journey.