Ben Simmons is ready for a fresh start in Sacramento

Ben Simmons is ready for a fresh start with the Sacramento Kings.

The veteran guard joined Sactown Sports’ Carmichael Dave and Jason Ross at Kings Media Day to discuss his decision to take time away from basketball, his excitement about joining Sacramento, and what he hopes to accomplish with the Kings.

Simmons, the first-overall pick in the 2016 NBA Draft and a three-time All-Star, has had his career slowed by injuries in recent years.

He last played in 2024-25, appearing in 51 games between the Brooklyn Nets and Los Angeles Clippers and averaging 5.0 points, 4.7 rebounds, and 5.6 assists in 22 minutes per game.

Now, Simmons believes stepping away from the game was exactly what he needed.

“I took that time off, which was much needed,” Simmons said. “A little scary to make that decision, but you know it paid off, and I bet on myself.”

Ben Simmons #25 of the Sacramento Kings poses for a picture during the Kings Media Day at Sacramento Kings Practice Facility on September 28, 2026 in Sacramento, California. (Photo by Thearon W. Henderson/Getty Images)

More from Kings G/F Ben Simmons

Ben Simmons said the time away wasn’t simply about getting his body right. It also gave him an opportunity to better understand himself away from basketball.

“I think just that time away and just kind of without the game was good for me to learn who I was as a person away from the game,” Simmons said. “I get to do this as a job, you know, get to hoop as a job, and I love it. But away from the game, I’m a whole different person.”

Despite everything he has experienced throughout his career, Simmons made it clear that his passion for basketball hasn’t disappeared.

“I love the game. I wouldn’t be here if I didn’t love the game,” he said. “I wouldn’t have put the work in to come back. I’ve been doing it since I was four years old. You know, it’s in my blood. I love to compete.”

That competitive mindset is part of what attracted Simmons to Sacramento. He described the Kings as a place where he can simply focus on basketball without the distractions that have surrounded him elsewhere.

“We’re here to hoop. We’re here to play. There’s no B.S.,” Simmons said. “I want to come in here, do my job, work hard, and get as many wins as we can this year.”

SACRAMENTO, CALIFORNIA – NOVEMBER 15: Ben Simmons #10 of the Brooklyn Nets stands for the national anthem before their game against the Sacramento Kings at Golden 1 Center on November 15, 2022 in Sacramento, California. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and or using this photograph, User is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. (Photo by Ezra Shaw/Getty Images)

Simmons also appears eager to embrace Sacramento beyond basketball.

The Australian native said he’s always been drawn to outdoor adventures, including hunting, diving, and fishing. He has already started thinking about exploring Northern California’s lakes and waterways.

“I enjoy it all,” Simmons said of fishing. “I think it’s just like a method, and you know, obviously fishing is just fascinating.”

For a Kings team coming off a 22-60 season, Simmons represents another intriguing piece of a revamped roster. If he can remain healthy, his size, passing ability, and defensive versatility could give Doug Christie another unique weapon.

For now, Simmons is focused on one thing: getting back on the court and competing.

“Definitely. I’m excited to be here and get going,” he said.

Listen to The Carmichael Dave Show with Jason Ross from 6 – 10 a.m. PDT, Monday through Friday, on Sactown Sports 1140.

More Sacramento Kings content from Sactown Sports

• Doug Christie: Kings have ‘every opportunity’ to build a new identity
• Domantas Sabonis has his eyes on a bounce-back season
• Ben Simmons has ‘no limitations’ entering Kings Training Camp
• Doug Christie sets Kings’ defensive standard ahead of 2026-27 NBA season
• Kings GM Scott Perry details Ben Simmons signing, Sacramento’s new team identity

Sacramento Kings Schedule: 2026-27 Preseason

• Monday, October 5th vs. Los Angeles Lakers (7 P.M. PST)
• Thursday, October 8th @ Los Angeles Lakers (7:30 P.M. PST)
• Saturday, October 10th @ Golden State Warriors (5:30 P.M. PST)
• Tuesday, October 13th vs. Portland Trail Blazers (7:00 P.M. PST)
• Friday, October 16th @ San Antonio Spurs (7:00 P.M. PST)

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