Ben Simmons’ NBA comeback on pause after torn Achilles

Sacramento Kings guard Ben Simmons. IMAGN IMAGES via Reuters Connect

Ben Simmons’ NBA comeback on pause after injury during Kings’ practice

By Paul White | Last updated Oct 18, 2026 7:38 PM ET

Former NBA Rookie of the Year Ben Simmons was touted as a generational talent before he entered the league. His rare blend of size, athleticism, power, defense and passing ability made him one of the most tantalizing players in the NBA.

The only weakness in his game was that he was far too passive on offense, and it was ultimately his undoing in the league. Simmons infamously passed up a dunk in a 2021 playoff series against the Atlanta Hawks, and the backlash from the play partially led to his trade from the Philadelphia 76ers and ultimately his disappearance from the league.

Simmons only played in 105 regular-season games after passing up the dunk, but after sitting out the 2025-26 season, he joined the Sacramento Kings and tried to revive his career.

Ben Simmons tears Achilles after promising preaseason with Kings

However, NBA insider Shams Charania announced on Sunday evening that he tore his Achilles during a practice with the team.

Just in: Sacramento Kings guard Ben Simmons is believed to have sustained a torn Achilles tendon at practice Sunday, sources tell ESPN. A suspected season-ending injury for Simmons after rejuvenated and impressive training camp and preseason performances. pic.twitter.com/v4HBvCbgQF
— Shams Charania (@ShamsCharania) October 18, 2026

It’s a devastating development for the 30-year-old point guard who was beginning to look like the star he was earlier in his career. Simmons was having an excellent preseason in Sacramento and was even emerging as a contender for the starting lineup.

But now the three-time All-Star will start the recovery process, and his comeback attempt will have to wait at least one season.

The former No. 1 overall pick has taken a long, winding road to get to this point in his career, and now the story gets even stranger. Players have been coming back much quicker and healthier from Achilles tears in recent years, but it is still one of the scariest injuries an athlete can have.

It will be a long road back for Simmons — now it’s time to see if he’s willing to travel it.

Paul White

Paul White is a contract writer from Philadelphia who attended Penn State University. He has contributed hundreds of stories about the NFL and NBA over the years and now brings that experience over to Yardbarker. He is a lifelong Philadelphia sports fan looking to bring the same passion from his city to sports media.

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