Free agent Ben Simmons has expressed openness to returning to the Philadelphia 76ers, stating he would play there without pay. The 29-year-old former No. 1 pick emphasized focusing on his health recovery amid ongoing free agency. His comments come after stints with the Brooklyn Nets and Los Angeles Clippers.
Ben Simmons, who remains unsigned following the 2025 offseason, recently indicated a desire to rejoin the Philadelphia 76ers. In response to an Instagram comment suggesting he would fit well with the team, Simmons liked the post. He further elaborated on Tuesday to a question about returning on a minimum contract, saying, "it aint about the $, id hoop there for free. Its deeper then what they make y’all believe which is why i keep it pushing 🤐 rn the focus is gettin the body to 100% before putting my health on the line again… like i have been the past few years."
Simmons' career with the Sixers began promisingly as a three-time All-Star, where he averaged 15.9 points, 8.1 rebounds, and 7.7 assists over four seasons as the starting point guard. He earned first-team NBA All-Defense honors for his passing, rebounding, and defense, despite limited shooting outside the paint. However, their relationship soured after the 2021 playoffs when Simmons demanded a trade, leading to a holdout during the 2021-2022 training camp and preseason. He accrued nearly $20 million in fines, resulting in a grievance and settlement.
Philadelphia traded Simmons and his nine-figure contract to the Brooklyn Nets at the 2022 trade deadline, acquiring James Harden in the deal headlined by that package. In Brooklyn, Simmons underwent surgery for a herniated disc in his back, sidelining him and causing his performance to decline. He was later released by the Nets and had an unproductive stint with the Los Angeles Clippers last season, hampered by back and knee injuries. Since the surgery, Simmons has struggled to stay healthy and maintain his previous production levels.
While Simmons' offer highlights unresolved tensions with the Sixers, it remains unclear if Philadelphia would consider reuniting, even in a backup role behind Tyrese Maxey, given the history and the team's depth issues.