Brooklyn Nets guard Ben Simmons feels confident and fully prepared for the upcoming 2024-25 NBA season. After an injury-riddled 2023-24 campaign, Simmons shared his optimism ahead of training camp, stating that he is physically ready to compete at a high level.
In a recent interview, Simmons reflected on his journey back to health, revealing that he wasn’t fully recovered last season despite returning to the court. “I wasn’t 100 percent, but I’m here now, and this is the situation. I feel great, and I put a lot of time and work in,” Simmons said, via Bridget Reilly of New York Post.
Simmons missed the first 38 games of the 2023-24 season due to ongoing back issues. He returned on January 29, 2024, against the Utah Jazz, recording 10 points, 11 assists, and 8 rebounds in a convincing win for Brooklyn. However, his season was cut short once again when a nerve impingement in his lower back forced him to miss the remainder of the season.
The three-time All-Star acknowledged that playing with another herniated disc last season significantly impacted his performance. He underwent a second back surgery in March, marking his second procedure in just two years. Simmons admitted that his injury limited his effectiveness last year but stressed that his rehab has paid off this time around.
“This is my second surgery in a couple years. Same situation, different area in the back, but I’m cleared now and I feel great and ready to go,” Simmons explained, assuring fans that he has moved past his injury concerns.
During the 2023-24 season, Simmons averaged career-low 6.1 points, 7.9 rebounds, and 5.7 assists per game over 15 appearances. His season ended prematurely in March after the Brooklyn Nets announced his absence due to the back injury. A microscopic partial discectomy surgery was performed in mid-March to address the issue.
Despite the injury setbacks, Simmons expressed excitement about what lies ahead. He credited his offseason work and rehab process for his renewed health and is eager to help his team in the upcoming season. “I feel physically ready to play at a high level,” he said, highlighting his determination to make an impact this year.
