Ben Simmons eyes NBA return: “Maybe Philly… Miami would be perfect”

Ben Simmons is preparing for his return to the NBA after missing the entire 2025-26 season. The former No. 1 overall pick made it clear that his goal is to return at full strength and prove he can still make an impact for a contending team.

I think it’s about putting myself in the best possible position, getting back on the floor, and then letting a team realize that my skill set can help them… Maybe I’ll go back to Philly. Miami would be a great option. Not because of the city, but because of Erik Spoelstra, the Heat culture, and the organization

Ben Simmons

Among his preferred destinations, Simmons specifically mentioned the Philadelphia 76ers and the Miami Heat – two franchises with very different identities but both viewed as potential landing spots as he attempts to revive his career.

The Philadelphia 76ers and the Simmons question

The possibility of a reunion with the 76ers inevitably brings back one of the NBA’s most talked-about storylines in recent years. It was in Philadelphia where Simmons enjoyed the best stretch of his career, earning three All-Star selections and establishing himself as one of the league’s premier all-around players.

Across four seasons with the Sixers, he averaged 15.9 points, 8.1 rebounds, and 7.7 assists per game – numbers he has been unable to replicate during his subsequent stints with the Brooklyn Nets and Los Angeles Clippers, where his production declined significantly.

Cold response from Philadelphia: “A return is impossible”

Despite Simmons’ comments, the idea of bringing him back has generated little enthusiasm in Philadelphia. Local sports radio personalities, in particular, have largely dismissed the possibility, arguing that the franchise has moved in a different direction.

I can’t imagine Mike Gansey, in one of his first moves as the Sixers’ president of basketball operations, bringing Ben Simmons back to Philadelphia. I’d have a heart attack. I don’t even think he’ll play in the NBA again. I don’t know if he’s trolling us, but for me the answer is an absolute no

Spike Eskin

For now, Simmons’ desire to relaunch his career and the complicated memories of his time in Philadelphia leave the door only slightly open – but in Philadelphia, there appears to be little appetite for a reunion.