A revitalised Ben Simmons has called “bull----” on critics who claim the reason he sat out the last NBA season is because he doesn’t love basketball.
The Australian guard is back in the big league this year, having signed a $US3.5 million ($A4.9 million) deal with the Sacramento Kings.
Simmons purchased a controlling stake in a professional sport fishing team and didn’t touch a basketball during his year off, in moves that drew plenty of criticism.
But the 30-year-old, who has been ravaged by injuries during his decade-long career, insists the break was purely about rebuilding his physical and mental health.
“It wasn’t about if I wanted to play,” Simmons told reporters at the Kings’ preseason media session on Tuesday (AEST).
“All these people talk about how I don’t love the game - that’s bull----.
“I love this game. If I didn’t, I wouldn’t have taken that year to focus on myself and get back to where I’m at.”
Simmons added he’s not worried by critics chasing clicks from his name, declaring he’s ready to prove to the world how much he missed basketball.
“I get to come out here and be creative and play hard and compete against a numerous amount of talented guys, so for me it’s just in my blood and I’ve been doing it since I was a baby.”
Simmons - a former No.1 overall draft pick, rookie of the year and three-time All-Star - believes the player he was at his peak “woke up” while he was out of the game.
And he’s not short on confidence, bluntly outlining his personal goal this season.
“To dominate. Every time I step on the floor - to dominate,” he said.
Simmons last played with the Los Angeles Clippers in April 2025 and took his year off as a result of persistent back and leg injuries, which took a significant toll on his body and mind.
The Melbourne-born star got serious in his comeback bid in August when he flew himself to a player-driven Boomers camp in his home town, where he impressed NBA scouts.
Sacramento pounced, signing Simmons on a one-season veteran league minimum deal.
“I’m right where I need to be,” Simmons said.
“I took a lot of time to focus on my body over the season, and I think it’s the best decision I’ve made for my career.
“I’m looking forward to getting going. I feel great, and I’m ready to go. No limitations.”
Simmons expects to benefit from the low expectations on himself and the Kings, who were 22-60 last season and have only reached the playoffs once since 2006.
“It’s really positive. There’s no pressure,” he said.
“They don’t expect anything from us, so I think for us to go out there and show that we’re capable of winning games and having a good team - that’s doable.
“Based on this roster, I think we can do that.”
Sacramento open the NBA preseason at home against the Los Angeles Lakers on October 5, and visit the Clippers for their regular-season opener on October 21.
Simmons’ NBA comeback is also a step towards possible Australian Boomers selection for next year’s FIBA World Cup in Qatar and the 2028 Los Angeles Olympics.
