Ben Simmons is returning to the NBA, signing a one-year, $3.5 million contract with the Sacramento Kings, according to ESPN. The signing marks a return to professional basketball for Simmons after he stepped away from the sport last season to pursue a career in professional fishing.
Simmons purchased a controlling share in the South Florida Sails Angling Club, part of the Sport Fishing Championship, during his hiatus. He previously played 18 games for the Los Angeles Clippers at the end of the 2024-25 season, averaging three points, four rebounds, and three assists in a limited bench role.
The 30-year-old, who was the No. 1 overall pick in the 2016 NBA Draft, has faced challenges with injuries and mental hurdles throughout his career, leading to difficulties with teams including the 76ers and Nets. The Kings, who finished last season with a 22-60 record and drafted Darius Acuff Jr. with the No. 7 pick, will add Simmons' veteran presence to their rebuilding roster.
During his time away from basketball, Simmons expressed enthusiasm for the sport of fishing. "It's a very niche sport," he told Andscape. "And if you don't know, you don't know. But once you experience it and get out there and see what it's about, you're kind of in awe of what the sport is."
He described fishing as a "tedious and gritty, but a lot of fun" pursuit, noting the complexity and dedication involved, with anglers often on "million-dollar vessels" for extended periods. Simmons indicated that experiencing the sport firsthand revealed its depth and appeal.