In a major blow to Sacramento Kings, point guard Ben Simmons suffered a likely season-ending injury just a few days before their opening game. Simmons, 30, tore his right Achilles tendon during the team's practice session on Sunday. Despite all his efforts at making a return, Simmons will now have to undergo surgery. However the former NBA All-Star, who is likely to miss the entire 2026-27 season, has made it clear that he isn't ready to throw in the towel yet.

BEN SIMMONS SENDS EMOTIONAL MESSAGE AFTER DEVASTATING INJURY

Simmons suffered the injury during a live drill at Sacramento's practice facility on Sunday, reported ESPN. An MRI subsequently confirmed the Achilles tear, dealing a massive blow to the Australian star's comeback plans.

The team announced that Simmons will have a surgery, though a recovery timetable has not yet been officially announced. This injury happens only three days before the Kings' season opening game against the Los Angeles Clippers.

Despite having another setback, Simmons responded with determination rather than despair.

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

His message also shows the toughness of a player who has seen his career derailed by injuries several times in the past. However, Simmons has also expressed his passion for the game and his determination to battle back in the same way.

BEN SIMMONS' PROMISING NBA COMEBACK SUFFERS ANOTHER SETBACK

Simmons signed with Sacramento for a one-year $3.5 million deal in September, seeking to resurrect a career that once made him one of the league’s most thrilling prospects.

According to NBA.com, the three-time All-Star player has been showing good signs in pre-season games, scoring an average of 10.5 points, grabbing four rebounds, and making four assists in two games. His performances had built expectations for him to be able to contribute effectively towards rebuilding Sacramento, especially along with rookie guard Darius Acuff Jr.

Simmons started off as Philadelphia’s first overall draft pick in 2016 NBA Draft and won Rookie of the Year Award later. Yet, injuries and prolonged spells of absence have been hindrances for him in performing at his peak, which earlier used to make him an All-Star.

Following his time with the Philadelphia 76ers, Brooklyn Nets, and Los Angeles Clippers, the Sacramento Kings provided him with another chance to prove himself. However, instead of looking forward to opening night, Simmons now has yet another long rehabilitation ahead of him.

The injury creates an unexpected challenge for the Kings before the new campaign while for Simmons, it represents another difficult chapter in an already turbulent career.