“Not the end”: Defiant Simmons reacts to devastating injury

Australia’s Ben Simmons is believed to have suffered a torn Achilles on the eve of the NBA season, reports ESPN’s Shams Charania.

Simmons, who signed for the Sacramento Kings for the 2026-27 season on a one-year deal, reportedly suffered the injury in practice on Sunday.

“Just in: Sacramento Kings guard Ben Simmons is believed to have sustained a torn Achilles tendon at practice Sunday, sources tell ESPN,” Charania posted on X.

“A suspected season-ending injury for Simmons after rejuvenated and impressive training camp and preseason performances.”

The timing of the injury comes as a brutal blow for the 30-year-old who had impressed in the pre-season, recently putting up 14 points, eight rebounds and seven assists in a clash against San Antonio.

That performance prompted legendary NBA centre Dwight Howard to predict Simmons could have an all-time comeback on X.

“Ben Simmons going to have the greatest comeback story in NBA history,” Howard posted on social media.

Simmons last played in the NBA during the 2024/25 season, missing the last campaign as he refreshed both mentally and physically after being hampered by an ongoing back issue.

Following the news, the former No.1 Pick has taken to Instagram, confirming the injury.

"I've faced challenges before that tested me mentally, physically, and emotionally, and I've found a way through every single one of them. This injury is another chapter in my journey, not the end of my story," Simmons wrote.

"It's never easy being away from the game I love, especially after everything it took to get back here. But if there's one thing I've learned, it's that adversity doesn't define you. How you respond to it does.

"I've been knocked down before, and I've always found a way to get back up. This time will be no different."

The NBA season officially begins on Wednesday when the Pistons and Celtics meet in Detroit.

Image credit: Ben Simmons on Instagram