Ben Simmons is tired of hearing that he does not love basketball.
After spending a year away from the game to focus on himself and his body, Simmons says he has rediscovered the mindset that once made him one of the NBA’s most unique young stars. And he is making it clear that the criticism surrounding his commitment has never matched how he feels about the sport.
“All these people talk about me not loving the game. That’s bullshit,” Simmons said. “People just want to get their podcast off. I love the game.”
For Simmons, taking time away was not a sign that he had lost interest. He says it was the opposite.
The former No. 1 overall pick explained that stepping back gave him the opportunity to rebuild physically and mentally after years in which injuries and uncertainty had repeatedly interrupted his career. Rather than rushing through another comeback, Simmons chose to take a full year to focus on getting himself back to a place where he could compete the way he wanted.
“That’s why I took a year off to focus on myself and get back to where I’m at,” he said.
Now, Simmons believes that process has brought something familiar back.
“Now the old Ben has woken up,” he said. “I want to dominate every time I step on the floor.”
Ben Simmons on making his return to the NBA with the Sacramento Kings:
“All these people talk about me not loving the game. That’s bulls—.” pic.twitter.com/GbUpjsjun3
— NBA on ESPN (@ESPNNBA) September 28, 2026
That is a significant statement from a player whose best years were defined by an unusual combination of size, speed, playmaking and defensive versatility. At his peak, Simmons could control games without relying heavily on scoring, pushing the ball in transition, creating for teammates and defending multiple positions.
The challenge now is turning those words into consistent production.
Simmons has spent much of the past several seasons dealing with injuries, reduced availability and constant public scrutiny. Every comeback attempt has carried questions about whether he can regain the explosiveness and confidence that defined the early part of his career.
This time, Simmons is not promising a return simply because others expect one. He is framing it as something personal.
