Ben Simmons suffers suspected season-ending Achilles tear in Kings practice

Ben Simmons, the ex-No. 1 draft pick who sat out the previous NBA season for physical and mental health reasons, was reportedly injured during a Sacramento Kings practice on Sunday. Sources say he suffered a torn Achilles tendon, an injury that is expected to end his 2026-27 campaign. Simmons had impressed in training camp and preseason games, reviving expectations that he could re-establish himself in the league.

The timing is especially painful as he had signed a one-year deal with the Kings and hoped to earn a spot on Australia’s Boomers roster for the 2027 World Cup. This marks the third Achilles rupture in the NBA preseason this month, following similar injuries to Ariel Hukporti of Philadelphia and Otega Oweh of Oklahoma City. The setback places Simmons’ long-term playing future in doubt.