Ben Simmons opens up about his journey from NBA collapse to potential recovery in a new interview with Men's Health. Speaking from his boat off Miami's coast, the 28-year-old basketball player discusses the physical and mental toll that led to his extended absence from the court.
Simmons recounts the cascade of events that derailed his career. A missed dunk in the 2021 playoffs triggered a public backlash in Philadelphia, compounding the mental strain he was already experiencing. Multiple back surgeries followed, each setback adding to his isolation. He describes enduring intense scrutiny from fans and media while managing chronic pain and depression.
The guard hasn't played meaningful basketball since 2021. His health struggles extended beyond the spine. Simmons battled nerve issues, lost strength during rehabilitation, and struggled with the psychological weight of being labeled a failure by NBA standards. The public pile-on intensified his mental health crisis.
From his current vantage point, Simmons sounds reflective rather than defensive. He emphasizes finding peace away from the spotlight and slowly rebuilding his physical foundation. The back surgeries have healed sufficiently that he's exploring a return, though he remains cautious about timelines.
Simmons' situation reflects a broader athletic reality: elite performers face crushing pressure when they underperform, and injuries combined with mental health struggles can sideline careers entirely. His willingness to discuss these challenges publicly marks a shift in how professional athletes address psychological damage alongside physical injury.
The comeback timeline remains unclear, but Simmons appears committed to returning on his own terms rather than chasing redemption on anyone else's schedule. His recovery hinges on both physical rehabilitation and continued mental health work.