Simmons' Season Ends with Torn Achilles

Ben Simmons’ long-awaited NBA comeback has been dealt a devastating blow. The Sacramento Kings announced Sunday that an MRI confirmed a torn right Achilles tendon sustained during a live drill in practice on Oct. 18 ^[1]. The injury will require surgery and is expected to end his season ^[2].

Simmons, 30, signed a one-year, $3.5 million deal with the Kings on Sept. 4, following a year as an unsigned free agent ^[2]. The contract was reportedly non-guaranteed, with a $1 million payout if he made the opening night roster ^[1].

Once a No. 1 overall pick in 2016, Simmons has battled persistent injuries throughout his career, including a right foot fracture in 2016-2017 and ongoing knee and leg issues from 2021 to 2025 ^[1]. Despite that history, he reportedly impressed Kings’ management during a private workout in Miami and a visit to Sacramento last month, where he underwent a medical exam and on-court evaluation ^[2].

The Kings had hoped Simmons would serve as a high-upside backup point guard behind rookie Darius Acuff Jr., capable of playing multiple positions ^[2]. He appeared in two preseason games, averaging 10.5 points in 17.5 minutes, including a 14-point, eight-rebound, seven-assist performance against the San Antonio Spurs ^[1].

With the Kings set to open their season Wednesday against the Clippers, Simmons’ absence is a major setback for a team banking on depth and versatility ^[1]. His return will now likely be delayed until next season.

The injury marks another chapter in Simmons’ turbulent career, where promise has often been overshadowed by physical setbacks ^[2]. The story was first reported by New York Post and ESPN. According to ^[1], the injury occurred during a live drill at Sunday's practice, a detail that has not been independently confirmed.