Ben Simmons Ramps Up NBA Comeback with Australian National Team Minicamp Participation
Unrestricted Participation in Melbourne
Former All-Star point forward Ben Simmons is taking concrete steps toward an NBA return. The 30-year-old Melbourne native was cleared for full, unrestricted participation at a player-led Australian national team minicamp in Melbourne.
Simmons sat out the entire 2025–2026 season to rehabilitate long-standing back issues that have limited his availability in recent years. According to team reports and national team staff, Simmons paid his own way to attend the Melbourne sessions to demonstrate his physical readiness and restored mobility to NBA talent evaluators.
Player Profile Overview
| Attribute | Details |
|---|---|
| Player Name | Ben Simmons |
| Age | 30 |
| Primary Position | Point Forward / Guard |
| Free Agency Status | Unrestricted Free Agent |
| Recent Activity | Australian Boomers Minicamp (Melbourne) |
| Health Status | Cleared for Full Contact (Zero Restrictions) |
Market Interest and Contract Expectations
Multiple NBA front offices have expressed interest in evaluating Simmons ahead of training camp. Notably, at least one Western Conference team has extended a non-guaranteed training camp invitation.
To minimize risk for prospective teams, Simmons’ representatives have communicated that he is entirely open to signing a veteran’s minimum contract for the upcoming campaign.
Long-Term Goals Beyond the NBA
Beyond securing an NBA roster spot for 2026–27, participating in the Boomers’ minicamp aligns with Simmons' stated goal of representing Australia at the 2028 Los Angeles Olympics. Joining fellow national team core members—including Josh Giddey, Dyson Daniels, and Patty Mills—marks his most significant competitive basketball activity since his last appearance in the league.
