Ben Simmons is trying to reopen his NBA path from Melbourne.
Marc Spears reported that Simmons is expected to be a full participant with zero restrictions in a player-led Australian men's national team mini-camp beginning Monday. Simmons took last season off in hopes of fully healing from injuries after last playing with the Nets and Clippers during the 2024-25 season.
The financial detail is small but telling: Simmons paid his own way to the camp. Spears also reported that a coach who recently worked him out said the 30-year-old has regained his athleticism, while Simmons recently told Andscape this is the best he has felt in years.
There is NBA interest attached to that health push. According to Spears, several teams have contacted Simmons' camp, including one Western Conference team that offered a training camp invite. Simmons is also open to signing a veteran minimum contract.
The Olympic angle matters too. Simmons still has dreams of playing for Australia at the 2028 Los Angeles Olympics, and showing up healthy for this mini-camp is part of keeping that door open.
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