Simmons injured in practice

Ben Simmons suffered a torn right Achilles tendon during a live drill at Sacramento Kings practice. An MRI scan confirmed the injury. Simmons will undergo surgery.

Comeback derailed before season

The 30-year-old Australian had shown promising signs during the Kings' pre-season after signing a one-year deal last month. The injury strikes just days before the NBA season opener.

Simmons likely out for season

Simmons is all but certain to miss the entire season. Sacramento opens against the LA Clippers on Thursday afternoon AEDT. The NBA regular season kicks off Wednesday morning AEDT.

History of injury struggles

Simmons's career has been derailed by injuries over the past five years. After playing 81 of 82 games in his rookie season, he has not exceeded 60 regular season games since 2018-19.

Simmons defends his love of game

In an ESPN documentary, Simmons hit back at critics questioning his passion for basketball. He said he has played through injuries including a broken foot and multiple back surgeries.

“All these people talk about I don't love the game. That's bullshit.”

Simmons vows to return

Despite the setback, Simmons wrote on Instagram that the injury is another chapter in his journey, not the end of his story. He said adversity does not define you; how you respond does.

“This injury is another chapter in my journey, not the end of my story.”