NBA News: Ben Simmons’ much-anticipated return to the NBA has suffered a major setback after the Sacramento Kings guard tore his right Achilles tendon during practice. The injury is expected to sideline the Australian basketball star for the entire 2026–27 season, ending his comeback attempt before the regular season even began. The Kings confirmed that Simmons underwent surgery on October 20. <Cite refs={[“turn325818search0″,”turn325818search1”]}/>
Ben Simmons Suffers Achilles Tear During Practice
The injury occurred on Sunday, October 18, during a live practice drill as Sacramento prepared for the new NBA season. An MRI confirmed the torn right Achilles tendon, and the Kings announced that Simmons would require surgery.
The injury is a significant blow for the 30-year-old, who had been working towards a return after missing the entire 2025–26 season while recovering from ongoing back and leg problems.
Simmons had signed a one-year contract worth approximately $3.5 million with Sacramento in September. He impressed the team’s coaching staff during offseason workouts and preseason appearances, raising hopes that he could make a meaningful contribution to the Kings’ lineup. <Cite refs={[“turn325818search1″,”turn325818search12”]}/>
Simmons Sends an Emotional Message to Fans
Following the injury announcement, Simmons shared a message expressing his determination to overcome another difficult challenge.
He acknowledged the physical and emotional obstacles he had faced throughout his career and emphasised that the latest setback would not mark the end of his basketball journey.
His message reflected his intention to work through rehabilitation and attempt another comeback, although no specific return date has been announced.
A Difficult Road Back to the NBA
Simmons was selected first overall by the Philadelphia 76ers in the 2016 NBA Draft. He won the NBA Rookie of the Year award for the 2017–18 season and earned three consecutive All-Star selections during his time in Philadelphia.
However, recurring injuries and interruptions to his playing career have limited his availability in recent seasons. After moving to the Brooklyn Nets, he continued to struggle with back problems before finishing the 2024–25 season with the Los Angeles Clippers.
He did not play during the 2025–26 campaign, making his anticipated return with Sacramento an important opportunity to rebuild his NBA career.
What the Injury Means for Sacramento
Simmons was expected to provide versatility, playmaking and defensive flexibility for the Kings. His ability to handle the ball and defend multiple positions made him a potentially valuable addition to the roster.
With Simmons unavailable, Sacramento will need to adjust its plans and rely on other guards and rotation players to fill the gap. The full impact will become clearer as the season progresses.
For Simmons, the immediate priority will be surgery recovery and rehabilitation. The Kings have not announced a definitive timetable for his return, but the injury is expected to keep him out for the entire 2026–27 season.
The setback marks another difficult chapter for the former No. 1 draft pick, whose hopes of returning to regular NBA action have once again been interrupted by injury.