Former NBA All-Star Ben Simmons has taken on a new role as the controlling operator of the South Florida Sails, a team in the professional Sport Fishing Championship league. As he continues rigorous rehabilitation workouts, Simmons expressed optimism about rejoining the NBA around the All-Star break or next season. The three-time All-Star emphasized his commitment to returning at full strength without wasting a roster spot.
Ben Simmons, the No. 1 overall pick in the 2016 NBA draft by the Philadelphia 76ers, is not currently on an NBA roster for the first time since entering the league. After being waived by the Brooklyn Nets in February and playing just 18 games for the Los Angeles Clippers last season—averaging 2.9 points, 3.8 rebounds, and 3.1 assists—Simmons has focused on recovery from persistent back injuries and nerve issues affecting his mobility.
In Tarzana, California, Simmons revealed to Andscape that he is conducting two-a-day basketball, strength, and rehabilitation sessions six days a week. "I feel like physically, mentally, I’m in a great place," he said, noting no recent setbacks. He aims to sign with a team around the NBA All-Star break if progress continues, but only if he can contribute fully. "I don’t think there’s any point in just wasting a spot just to be out there. I think that’s a little selfish," Simmons stated.
Parallel to his NBA aspirations, Simmons has invested in professional fishing, becoming the majority owner of the South Florida Sails in the Sport Fishing Championship (SFC), founded in 2021. The league features 16 teams across 11 states competing in 16 tournaments targeting species like white marlin and sailfish, using a points system to crown a champion. Other celebrity owners include golfers Scottie Scheffler and NFL stars Randy Moss. "The way I see it, it’s like the new F1 for fishing," Simmons described the sport. He owns a 53-foot Scout center console boat named 'The Real One Fishing Club Boat' and plans to build a fishing community in Miami, where he now resides, without competing as an angler himself.
Simmons' nine-year NBA career includes three All-Star selections, 2018 Rookie of the Year honors, and All-Defensive first-team in 2020, with career averages of 13.1 points, 7.4 rebounds, and 7.2 assists in 383 games. He recently re-signed with agent Rich Paul of Klutch Sports, citing renewed trust. While reflecting on challenges like his holdout in Philadelphia and injuries, Simmons remains passionate about basketball. "I’m just a competitor... it’s a dream to play against the best in the world," he said, insisting his story is unfinished.