Former NBA All-Star Ben Simmons has suffered another devastating injury setback, just as he was preparing to make his long-awaited return to professional basketball. The Sacramento Kings guard has reportedly suffered a season-ending torn right Achilles tendon during Sunday’s practice, ending his comeback attempt before the regular season even begins.
According to Shams Charania’s breaking report, Simmons initially was believed to have torn his Achilles during practice. Charania subsequently reported that an MRI confirmed the injury, ruling the former No. 1 overall pick out for the 2026-27 NBA season.
The news is particularly difficult considering everything Simmons has endured over the past several years. After undergoing multiple back surgeries and missing the entire 2025-26 season, the 30-year-old appeared to be approaching a fresh start in Sacramento.
Ben Simmons’ NBA Comeback Ends Before It Begins
Simmons signed a one-year contract with the Kings during the offseason, hoping to revive a career once filled with tremendous promise. The three-time NBA All-Star had reportedly enjoyed an encouraging training camp and preseason, showing flashes of the versatility that once made him one of basketball’s most unique talents.
As recent coverage of his injury and comeback detailed, Simmons was expected to have a meaningful role in Sacramento’s rotation. He had impressed during preseason action, making Sunday’s injury an especially painful development for both the player and his new team.
Simmons’ career began with enormous expectations after Philadelphia selected him first overall in the 2016 NBA Draft. He went on to earn three All-Star selections, establish himself as an elite defender, and become one of the league’s most dangerous playmakers before persistent injuries disrupted his career.
Kings Must Adjust Following Devastating Injury
The timing leaves Sacramento with a significant problem just days before the start of the regular season. Simmons was expected to provide size, passing ability, and defensive versatility, but the Kings must now find another way to replace those contributions.
The setback also creates another difficult chapter in Simmons’ professional career, although it would be premature to speculate about retirement. His immediate priority will be treatment and rehabilitation following the confirmed Achilles tear.
For Simmons, the cruelest part may be that he had finally reached the point where basketball appeared to be enjoyable again. After spending so much time working toward a return, his comeback has ended before he could play a regular-season game for Sacramento.
Ben Simmons’ 2026-27 season is over before it begins. What comes next for the former All-Star will depend on his recovery and whether he chooses to pursue another NBA comeback.