Ex-Sixers Star Ben Simmons Makes Important Move Before NBA Return

Ben Simmons is back with his original agent. Rich Paul, one of the biggest voices in the sports agency world, has welcomed Simmons back to Klutch Sports as the former Philadelphia 76ers star works on making his return to the NBA.

Over the offseason, Simmons had a public split with Bernie Lee. Rumors indicated that Lee parted ways with Simmons after he denied offers, specifically from the New York Knicks.

In a recent sit-down with Andscape’s Marc J. Spears, Simmons didn’t address the reason behind parting ways with Lee. However, he confirmed that he’s back with Rich Paul, and a return to the NBA has not been ruled out.

When Could Simmons Return?

“I’m looking maybe halfway through this year, if not next season,” Simmons said via Andscape. “It just depends how far I can come along in that next month or so. But I’m feeling great. I haven’t had any setbacks.”

Over the past few seasons, Simmons has dealt with back and knee concerns. He played in just 51 games last season, splitting time with the Brooklyn Nets and the Los Angeles Clippers.

The veteran guard noted that mobility was an issue over the past two seasons. Although he didn’t have a ton of usage during his stints with the Brooklyn Nets and the LA Clippers, it was clear that Simmons was bothered by physical ailments. 

Right now, Simmons is in great shape mentally and physically. He confirmed that retiring from basketball is not in the cards at the moment. Instead, he’s taking a break that he felt he should’ve taken earlier so he can get his body right. 

“I feel like I’m really turning a corner now, which has been a blessing because I don’t think people really understood the last couple of years for me,” Simmons explained.

“You really want to do something, your mind is there, but your body can’t physically do it, which is tough. It’s a frustrating thing to go through. But I’ve been through it before. It’s just staying steady and continuing to work, but I have to slow down.”

During Simmons’ first four NBA seasons, he was one of the league’s top guards. In 275 games with the Sixers, Simmons averaged 15.9 points, 8.1 rebounds, and 7.7 assists. He was a three-time All-Star and one of the top defensive players in the league.

After a public fallout with the 76ers, Simmons was traded to the Nets. He missed the entire 2021-2022 season and played in just 108 games since then. Last year, Simmons reached a buyout with Brooklyn before signing a one-year deal with the Nets. He wouldn’t return to LA. Simmons moved to Miami to pursue an opportunity to own a professional fishing team.

Over the summer, Simmons reportedly landed interest from the Knicks. Before he signed with the Clippers last season, he was targeted by the Cleveland Cavaliers. At this point, both teams have moved on.

Simmons noted that he was happiest during his time with the Sixers in Philadelphia, but it’s unclear if a reunion could be in the cards or not. For the time being, Simmons is continuing to work out twice a day in preparation for his NBA comeback. 

It won’t be an easy journey for Simmons, but having one of the most powerful agents in the game should help him find a new home when he’s ready.