Three-time NBA All-Star Ben Simmons has once again found himself at the center of NBA chatter as training camp nears. Of course, this isn’t for the reasons he would have hoped for.
The former No. 1 overall pick remains unsigned in free agency, which fueled whispers about a potential early retirement at just 29 years old. But in the face of speculation, Simmons spoke directly, making things clearer for his fans.
What Did Ben Simmons Say Shutting Down Retirement Talk?
Retirement rumors picked up steam earlier this summer after the New York Post reported Simmons was “considering” retirement following a disappointing stint with the Los Angeles Clippers.
After being bought out by the Brooklyn Nets midway through last season, he played just 18 games in Los Angeles, averaging 2.9 points, 3.8 rebounds, and 3.1 assists in 16.4 minutes per contest. His limited role and absence from Ty Lue’s postseason rotation raised concerns about whether his time in the league was nearing an end.
Simmons, however, put those doubts to rest with just one word: “No.” He posted offseason photos from Australia on Instagram. A fan asked him in the comments whether he had retired, but Simmons was blunt. He said “no” to quiet down weeks of speculation.
Ben Simmons is NOT retired 🔥
(h/t @CourtsideBuzzX) pic.twitter.com/SG0cC5aaCD
— Legion Hoops (@LegionHoops) September 15, 2025
The response came during recent struggles, when he wasn’t ready to walk away from basketball. It was a firm reminder that while there have been turbulences along the way, Simmons still sees himself as an active player capable of contributing.
Is Ben Simmons’ Career Declining?
All the rumors set aside, Simmons’ current standing is a stark contrast to his early years in Philadelphia. Drafted first overall in 2016, he missed his entire rookie season but returned to win Rookie of the Year in 2018.
From 2018 to 2021, he was selected for three consecutive All-Star games, made two All-Defensive First Teams, and earned an All-NBA nod. During that stretch, he averaged nearly 16 points, eight rebounds, and eight assists per game, establishing himself as one of the league’s most versatile two-way players.
Since 2021, however, injuries and role changes have dramatically reshaped his career. Back issues and offensive limitations have limited him to 108 appearances over the past four seasons. In this period, his averages fell to 5.9 points, 5.8 rebounds and 5.8 assists.
His stint in Brooklyn was slightly more productive than his brief stay in Los Angeles, with 6.2 points and 6.9 assists across 33 games. Concerns about his durability and scoring have made teams hesitant to commit, even as franchises like the Knicks, Celtics, and Kings reportedly explored adding him.
At 29, Simmons still believes he has more to offer. Whether that opportunity comes from an NBA contender seeking depth, a rebuilding team willing to gamble, or even an overseas option remains to be seen. What’s certain, though, is that Simmons hasn’t closed the door on his career yet.
