Ben Simmons’ NBA comeback derailed after tearing achilles tendon in practice

Ben Simmons faces a monumental task to revive his NBA career after another devastating injury setback put his comeback attempt with the Sacramento Kings on hold. The Australian will undergo surgery after scans revealed he tore his right achilles tendon during a live drill at practice, just three days out from Sacramento’s season opener against the Los Angeles Clippers.

The 30-year-old signed a one‑year contract with the Kings in an effort to revive his career, but will now miss the entire season. It represents a massive setback for the three‑time All‑Star, who has spent five years battling a series of significant injuries and mental health concerns.

“I’ve faced challenges before that tested me mentally, physically, and emotionally, and I’ve found a way through every single one of them,” Simmons shared in an Instagram story. “This injury is another chapter in my journey, not the end of my story.”

“It’s never easy being away from the game I love, especially after everything it took to get back here. But if there’s one thing I’ve learned, it’s that adversity doesn’t define you. How you respond to it does. I’ve been knocked down before, and I’ve always found a way to get back up. This time will be no different.”

Simmons showed promising flashes in pre‑season play, including a productive 26‑minute performance in Sacramento’s loss to San Antonio. The hype preceded him when NBA legends—including Dwight Howard—predicted a resounding return. “Ben Simmons going to have the greatest comeback story in NBA history!” Howard posted on X last week.

NBA icons Dirk Nowitzki and Blake Griffin also voiced confidence in Simmons’ readiness to reclaim form. “He is incredibly talented, he’s a big body and he can defend so many positions,” Griffin remarked at the NBA on Prime launch. “Downhill he’s ready to attack the rim and he’s a great passer. I want to see a strong season from him because he’s a special talent and the league is better off with a player like him.”

The latest injury strike continues a turbulent period for the former No. 1 overall draft pick. Named Rookie of the Year and a three‑time All‑Star prior to his recent decline, Simmons rose to prominence with the Philadelphia 76ers before missing the 2021‑22 season amid mental health struggles and physical setbacks. He pursued a trade, ended up in Brooklyn, endured two‑and‑a‑half injury‑plagued campaigns, and concluded the 2024‑25 season with the Los Angeles Clippers.

In addition to setting his sights on a full comeback, Simmons faced criticism after being recalled from a marketing initiative and subsequently left the upcoming season unplayed, prompting questions over his passion for the sport. However, he quickly re‑signed with Sacramento, positioning himself to contribute significantly to their rebuild alongside rookie Darius Acuff and veteran Zach LaVine.

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