Ben Simmons Opens Up on NBA Return, Floats 76ers and More as Possible Landing Spots

Ben Simmons Opens Up on NBA Return, Floats 76ers and More as Possible Landing Spots centers on the veteran’s stated plan to return to the league and his interest in specific teams. Simmons, 29 and a professional fisherman, told Clay Skipper of Men’s Health that he intends to get “as strong as I can physically,” then return to the court when a team believes his abilities are needed. He said he does not yet have a destination, but floated a possible return to Philadelphia and suggested Miami as an option, citing his familiarity with coach Erik Spoelstra and the Heat’s organization and culture. Simmons said his previous concerns were health-related after he dealt with a pinched nerve in his back in 2020, affecting his lower back and legs. He described the pain as limiting basic basketball tasks such as rebounding, dunking, guarding and playing defense. After seeking a trade and being dealt to Brooklyn in February 2022, he did not play in 2021-22 and totaled 90 games for the Nets over the next three seasons, followed by 18 games with the Los Angeles Clippers in 2024-25. He also bought a majority stake in the South Florida Sails Angling Club in December.