Ben Simmons inks one-year, $3.5 million contract with the Sacramento Kings

Ben Simmons has officially re‑entered the NBA, signing a one‑year contract worth $3.5 million with the Sacramento Kings, ESPN reported. The agreement was confirmed by Simmons’ representatives—agents Max Wiepking, Sean Tribe and Ryan Arney—who relayed the details to both Andscape and ESPN’s Shams Charania.

The deal marks Simmons’ first roster spot since the 2021‑22 season, during which he missed the entire year while navigating mental‑health concerns and a contentious trade saga that saw him move from the Philadelphia 76ers to the Brooklyn Nets without ever playing a game for the latter. His previous contract, a five‑year, $177 million extension signed with the 76ers in 2019, was terminated by the Nets in 2022, leaving him a free agent for the past season.

Sacramento’s front office hopes the veteran guard can provide depth at the point guard position and add defensive versatility. The Kings, currently rebuilding around young talent such as Keegan Murray and Davion Mitchell, view Simmons as a low‑risk, high‑reward acquisition that could mentor younger players while contributing on both ends of the floor.

Simmons’ return comes at a time when the NBA is seeing a wave of short‑term contracts for players looking to re‑establish value after injuries or off‑court issues. Analysts note that a one‑year deal allows both player and team to assess fit without long‑term financial commitment. If Simmons can stay healthy and adapt to the Kings’ system, he could position himself for a more lucrative contract next season.

The broader context underscores how mental‑health considerations have become a more visible part of professional sports negotiations. Simmons publicly cited the need for a “reset” in his personal life before committing to another team, a stance that has prompted the league to refine its support resources for athletes facing similar challenges.

While the contract is modest compared with his previous earnings, the agreement gives Simmons a platform to demonstrate that his on‑court abilities remain intact. The Kings will likely integrate him gradually, giving him time to regain conditioning and confidence as the season progresses.