Not Worthy of Returning to the NBA? Simmons Fires Back at Beverley: This Isn't a Handout Opportunity

On September 11, Beijing time, former NBA player Patrick Beverley recently stated on his podcast that Ben Simmons had "given up on basketball" and didn't deserve to return to the NBA. In response, Simmons himself fired back strongly on social media.

Beverley said on the show: "I think it's unfair. You can't just give up on basketball and then come back. It's like, you haven't accomplished much and you can just walk away; because the game is too tough, the pressure is too much, you're not playing well, you're criticized by fans, you're vilified by the media, and you choose to quit. After quitting, you still get a chance to return to the league? Look at Victor Oladipo—he kept fighting, played in the G League, worked out in front of numerous coaches and general managers, and even wrote letters to get opportunities. And you chose (Simmons)! I'm not trying to deny Ben Simmons as a person. But I can't endorse the idea of giving up when things get tough—'I'm not doing well, my form is off, I'm in trouble everywhere I go, so I'll make excuses and quit.'"

Simmons updated his social media, writing: "Walk away??? I was unable to play for two consecutive years due to physical injuries. This isn't a handout opportunity. I've given my all to get here… I'm grateful to be playing the game I love! You keep fabricating stories for your own benefit, which only reveals who you really are."

Earlier, Simmons signed a one-year, $3.5 million contract with the Sacramento Kings. To receive the full salary from this contract, Simmons must be on the Kings' opening night roster. Reporter Michael Scotto reported that Simmons' new contract is non-guaranteed. If Simmons is on the roster when the Kings open the regular season on October 22 against the Clippers on the road, he will earn $1 million first.

Simmons has not played in an NBA regular season game since the 2024-25 season. That season, he played for the Brooklyn Nets and the Los Angeles Clippers, appearing in 51 games and averaging 5 points, 5.6 assists, and 4.7 rebounds.