Sacramento Kings guard Ben Simmons suffered a torn right Achilles tendon during a team practice on October 18, according to a report by ESPN. The injury, confirmed by an MRI, is expected to sideline the 30-year-old for the entirety of the 2026-27 NBA season as he faces another major rehabilitation process.
Team Practice Injury Halts Return
The setback occurred on the practice floor just days before the start of the regular season, interrupting what had been a promising return to form. Simmons missed the previous NBA season to focus on recovering from lingering back injuries and other physical ailments. In September, he signed a contract with the Sacramento Kings, aiming to re-establish his career after about a year away from NBA games.
Just in: Sacramento Kings guard Ben Simmons is believed to have sustained a torn Achilles tendon at practice Sunday, sources tell ESPN. A suspected season-ending injury for Simmons after rejuvenated and impressive training camp and preseason performances. pic.twitter.com/v4HBvCbgQF
During the preseason, those efforts showed tangible results on the court. In a recent appearance against the San Antonio Spurs, Simmons started and logged roughly 26 minutes of playing time, finishing with 14 points, eight rebounds, and seven assists. That performance highlighted his versatility on both ends of the floor, making the sudden Achilles tear a significant blow to the Kings’ roster depth as opening night approached.
Social Media Statement on Adversity
Addressing the development through his Instagram stories, Simmons reflected on the physical hurdles that have punctuated his career. “I’ve faced adversity before and worked my way through it,” Simmons wrote, describing the injury as a new chapter rather than the end of his journey.
“It’s never easy to step away from the game you love, especially after working through so much just to get back here,” he continued. “But I’ve learned one thing: adversity doesn’t define you, how you face it does. I’ve fallen down before, and every time I’ve found a way back up. This time is no different.”
Career Context and Draft Pedigree
Selected first overall in the 2016 NBA Draft by the Philadelphia 76ers, Simmons won the 2017-18 NBA Rookie of the Year award and earned three All-Star selections. However, in recent years, he has struggled with repeated injuries and aimed to rebuild his career.
The latest diagnosis marks a major trial for the 30-year-old, arriving just as he secured a fresh start in Sacramento.
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