Ben Simmons Aims for NBA Comeback with Australian National Team

Ben Simmons is taking steps towards an NBA comeback by joining the Australian national team's minicamp, which starts this week in Melbourne. The former No. 1 overall pick in the 2016 NBA Draft aims to return to the NBA for the 2026-27 season after sitting out last year to recover from injuries.

Simmons has expressed his desire to compete for the Boomers at the 2028 Olympics in Los Angeles, but he must demonstrate his commitment and skill to secure a place on the roster. He has not represented Australia since 2013, missing the last three Olympic cycles for various reasons.

In addition to his national team aspirations, Simmons has hinted at a possible return to the Philadelphia 76ers, where he previously achieved significant success, including winning Rookie of the Year and making three All-Star appearances. He last played in the 2024-25 season with the Brooklyn Nets and Los Angeles Clippers, averaging 5.0 points, 5.6 assists, and 4.7 rebounds per game.