Ben Simmons impresses in Kings pre-season comeback game

Summarised from 2 outlets · Updated 17 Oct, 07:02 · Archive

Ben Simmons recorded 14 points, eight rebounds and seven assists in 26 minutes as Sacramento Kings lost to San Antonio.

Ben Simmons recorded 14 points, eight rebounds and seven assists as Sacramento Kings suffered a 126-97 pre-season defeat to San Antonio on Friday. Playing 26 minutes, Simmons went 5-of-9 from the field and scored 12 points in the third quarter alone, showcasing his ability to create opportunities for teammates including Kings top-scorer Zach LaVine.

The 30-year-old Australian is building towards his first NBA regular-season game since April 2025 after sitting out all of last season. He returned on a one-year deal with Sacramento to focus on physical and mental health following a series of injuries that affected the three-time All-Star.

Simmons has faced criticism over his year-long absence, which he branded as 'bullshit'. NBA great Blake Griffin backed him this week to reproduce strong basketball this season, saying: 'He is incredibly talented, he's a big body and he can defend so many positions. Downhill he gets to the rim and he's a great passer. I want to see a great year from him because he's a special talent.'

How it is being reported

• Another positive step for Simmons in NBA comebackBen Simmons has impressed for the beaten Sacramento Kings with a strong individual pre-season performance as he ramps up his NBA comeback.Perth Now · 17 Oct, 06:33
• Another positive step for Simmons in NBA comebackBen Simmons has impressed for the beaten Sacramento Kings with a strong individual pre-season performance as he ramps up his NBA comeback.The West Australian · 17 Oct, 06:33

In this story: Ben Simmons · Sacramento Kings · San Antonio · Zach LaVine · Blake Griffin · Dirk Nowitzki · Australia · Melbourne

This summary was written by AI from the headlines and standfirsts above, and states as fact only what at least two outlets report. How we use AI · Report a problem