Ben Simmons teases NBA comeback with interest in signing with 76ers or Heat

Ben Simmons is teasing an NBA comeback and has mentioned potential interest from the Philadelphia 76ers or the Miami Heat in an interview with Men’s Health. More than a year has passed since he last played an NBA game. Simmons spent the first half of the 2024-2025 season with the Brooklyn Nets, then agreed to a buyout and signed with the Los Angeles Clippers, where he appeared in 18 games and averaged 2.9 points, 3.8 rebounds and 3.1 assists. After that season, he entered free agency but chose not to join a team for 2025, turning instead to fishing and the pro fishing scene. For 2026, he said he wants to return to the court and described a training approach focused on strength and readiness. He reiterated that Miami would appeal to him for the Heat’s organization and coach Erik Spoelstra, and that Philadelphia could also be an option. The article also notes competitive context: Philadelphia reportedly may not need backcourt help, while Miami would value depth after acquiring Giannis Antetokounmpo, though shooting concerns remain.