Sacramento Kings' Ben Simmons dismisses critics at media day
Ben Simmons has joined the Sacramento Kings and is pushing back against critics who question his commitment to basketball. He attributes his recent absences to physical injuries rather than a lack of passion for the game.
Why it matters
Simmons' return to the NBA is a high-profile comeback story that tests whether a former star can overcome chronic health issues to contribute to a new team.
Hear this story The Sacramento Kings held their media day on Monday, Sept. 28 and there was lots of anticipation to hear from newly signed forward-guard Ben Simmons .
Simmons signed with Sacramento to round out their roster, filling their final open spot.
Simmons comes with a chip on his shoulder ready to prove wrong the doubters who had negative things to say about his career. He's sat out a lot in recent years. The 6-foot-10 combo guard has missed time throughout his career due to chronic back problems, a series of leg injuries and mental hurdles that have prevented him from being the best version of himself. He missed the entire 2025-26 season to rehabilitate his body from his lingering injuries.
Critics have questioned his love for the game. Simmons dismissed the haters and asserted his passion for hoops in an expletive statement during Kings media day.
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