Ben Simmons is not holding back. The Sacramento Kings forward came out swinging at media day on Monday, telling reporters point-blank, “That’s bulls–t,” when critics question his love for basketball. He’s fired up, pushing back hard on the narrative that he doesn’t actually care about the game, and he wants everyone to know it was his body, not his heart, that kept him off the court.
Simmons Sets the Record Straight on What Kept Him Out
Simmons, who’s now 30 years old, laid it all out. He explicitly stated that his absence last season, and his limited 108 games between the 2021-22 and 2024-25 seasons, was all about physical struggles and a holdout with the Philadelphia 76ers, not a lack of passion. “I think that was more so my body. It wasn’t about if I wanted to play,” he told the media. He’s talking about those persistent back issues that have plagued him, making it impossible to be on the floor. Simmons even said he “wouldn’t have taken that year to focus on myself and get back to where I’m at” if he didn’t love the game. This guy, a former Rookie of the Year and a three-time All-Star, says basketball is “in my blood” and he calls it “my art.” It’s clear he’s fed up with the whispers about his dedication, and he’s ready to prove everyone wrong.
Muted Expectations and a New Spark for the Kings
So, what does this fire from Simmons mean for Sacramento? Honestly, expectations for the Kings are “fairly muted” heading into the season. Nobody’s expecting them to light the league on fire, and Simmons himself isn’t being asked to be the ball-dominant superstar he once was in Philly. Instead, the Kings would be “assuredly happy” if he just provides a “defensive and playmaking spark off the bench.” That’s a huge shift for a player of his caliber, but it also takes some pressure off him. He’ll be joining a core group that includes De’Andre Hunter, Keegan Murray, Domantas Sabonis, Malik Monk, Darius Acuff Jr., and Nique Clifford, trying to find his place away from the blazing spotlight he used to be under.
Simmons is making his return to the court with a massive chip on his shoulder, openly challenging anyone who doubts his love for the game. The Kings kick off their season soon, and all eyes will be on whether Simmons can translate that fiery defense into the on-court production they need. Can he really be the defensive and playmaking spark Sacramento is hoping for? We’re about to find out.
This article was created with AI assistance and published under Seattle On Tap’s editorial standards. See our Editorial Policy.
Originally reported by Bleacher Report.
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