Ben Simmons Hints at NBA Return After Reflecting on His Difficult Journey

Ben Simmons has given fans another reason to believe his basketball career may not be over. The former No. 1 overall pick posted a reflective message on Instagram, hinting that he could be preparing for a return to the NBA after spending the 2025-26 season away from the league.

The post immediately became a talking point across NBA News, particularly because Simmons has not played since his stint with the Los Angeles Clippers in 2025. While he stopped short of announcing a team or confirming a return date, his words suggested that he is ready to begin another chapter.

Simmons Reflects on a Difficult NBA Journey

Simmons reflected on his difficult journey, saying that he would not change any part of it. He embraced the highs, lows, pain, time and lessons that shaped his career, viewing each experience as an important part of his growth.

The message comes after a career that once appeared destined for superstardom. Simmons became a three-time All-Star with the Philadelphia 76ers and earned All-Defensive honors, establishing himself as one of the league's most versatile defenders and playmakers.

His career took a sharp turn following the 2021 playoffs, when his performance against the Atlanta Hawks came under heavy criticism. Simmons was eventually traded to the Brooklyn Nets, but back problems and other physical setbacks prevented him from consistently returning to his previous level.

He later joined the Clippers, appearing in 18 games during the 2024-25 season and averaging 2.9 points, 3.8 rebounds and 3.1 assists in roughly 16 minutes per game.

That season became his most recent NBA action before he spent the following campaign outside the league. His latest post therefore carries more weight than a routine social media update, particularly as NBA News continues to follow his next move.

A different role could be possible

Simmons no longer needs to return as the franchise centerpiece he was expected to become in Philadelphia. If he can stay healthy, his size, passing and defensive versatility could still make him useful in a limited rotation role.

A team would not necessarily need him to score heavily. Instead, Simmons could provide secondary playmaking, defend multiple positions and help move the ball without requiring a large offensive workload.

That approach could give him a more realistic path back into the league while reducing the pressure that surrounded him earlier in his career.

Rumors grow around a Sixers reunion

Simmons' latest activity has naturally revived trade rumors and speculation surrounding a possible return to Philadelphia. The idea became even more interesting after Simmons recently shared a social media image featuring LeBron James-themed footwear, which some fans interpreted as a possible hint toward the 76ers. There has been no confirmation that Philadelphia is pursuing him, however.

The Sixers are also a very different team from the one Simmons left. Any reunion would therefore involve a completely different basketball environment, making it difficult to predict whether the organization would seriously consider bringing him back. Still, the possibility is enough to keep Simmons involved in trade rumors and speculation as the offseason continues.

For Simmons, the bigger challenge will be proving that he can remain healthy and contribute consistently. His talent has rarely been questioned; availability and confidence have been the bigger concerns.

The next chapter

Simmons' post does not guarantee an NBA contract, but it does signal that he is thinking seriously about returning. After years of injuries, criticism and uncertainty, the former All-Star appears ready to find out what remains of the player who once looked like one of basketball's brightest young stars.

Whether that comeback happens in Philadelphia or somewhere else remains unknown. For now, Simmons has made one thing clear: he is not ready to close the book on his NBA career.