Ben Simmons intensifies training with a goal of returning to the NBA.

After missing the entire 2025-26 season, former NBA draft number one Ben Simmons is stepping up his training intensity in preparation for a return to the court.

Simmons' last NBA game was in the 2024-25 season with the Los Angeles Clippers. In a magazine interview, the three-time All-Star, who will soon turn 30, expressed his determination to return. He stated that during this year away from the court, he needed to step away and rediscover himself.

In a report published on Monday, Simmons said, "I plan to get as strong as possible physically, get back on the court, and then make teams realize they will need my abilities. I don't have any specific plans for where I'm going yet."

Furthermore, Simmons revealed that a coach has told him he can return to the league as long as he stays healthy. When asked about his preferred destination, he said, "Maybe I'll go back to Philadelphia. Miami would be great too… I like Erik Spoelstra, I like the Heat, I like their organization and culture."

As the 2017-18 Rookie of the Year, Simmons has averaged 13.1 points, 7.4 rebounds, and 7.2 assists per game in his career and has been selected to the All-Defensive Team twice. However, he has long been plagued by injuries and mental issues. In his last season with the Clippers, he only played 18 games, and his scoring average dropped to 2.9 points per game.

Facing external criticism, Simmons emphasized that his comeback was entirely his own choice. He said, "It has never been about whether I love playing basketball. That's never been a question. It's in my DNA. However, I think sometimes you just need to get through all the trouble that comes with it."

Image source: Internet/NBA official website