Sacramento Kings guard Ben Simmons has a message for those criticizing his passion for basketball.
"I think that was moreso just my body. It wasn't about if I wanted to play," Simmons said Monday of his one-year hiatus from the NBA, per ESPN. "All these people talked about (how) I don't love the game. That's bullshit.
"I love this game. If I didn't, I wouldn't have taken that year to focus on myself and get back to where I'm at."
Simmons was among the league's most notable rising talents when he broke into the Association as the No. 1 overall pick in the 2016 draft. His playmaking at 6-foot-10 and defensive versatility made him a key part of the Philadelphia 76ers' core.
Through his first four seasons, Simmons earned Rookie of the Year honors, three All-Star nods, and a pair of All-Defensive first-team selections. However, back issues began to take their toll on Simmons, limiting him to 51 appearances or fewer over each of the next four campaigns.
Simmons most recently averaged five points, 4.7 rebounds, and 5.6 assists across 51 appearances with the Brooklyn Nets and Los Angeles Clippers during the 2024-25 campaign.
The LSU product sat out all of last season while recovering from his injuries, but he now feels physically ready to suit up once again.
"I'm right where I need to be," Simmons told reporters at Kings media day, including James Ham of ESPN 1320 Sacramento. "I took a lot of time to focus on my body over the season, and I think it was the best ... decision I've made for my career.
"I'm looking forward to getting going. I feel great and I'm ready to go. No limitations."
