Ben Simmons has announced his commitment to representing Australia at the 2028 Olympic Games in Los Angeles, provided he remains healthy. Speaking with Grant Afseth of RG, Simmons reaffirmed his long-standing goal of competing on the international stage.
“That’s what I’ve always wanted — to play in the Olympics,” Simmons said. “If I’m healthy and I’m good to go, then I’ll definitely be there.”
Simmons also expressed his support for Australia’s new head coach, Adam Caporn, who was recently appointed to lead the Boomers after Brian Goorjian’s departure. The Los Angeles Clippers guard praised Caporn’s coaching ability and emphasized his excitement about working with him.
“I’ve known [Adam Caporn] for a while, I’m happy for him,” Simmons said. “He’s a great coach and a great person. I’m looking forward to talking to him and getting connected — continue to build our relationship going into the next Olympics.”
Simmons has previously expressed intentions to play for Australia but has yet to follow through in a major tournament. He withdrew from the 2016 Olympics to prepare for his rookie NBA season, skipped the 2019 FIBA World Cup due to “professional obligations,” and pulled out of the 2020 Tokyo Olympics to focus on improving his shooting.
Most recently, he was not included in Australia’s preliminary selection pool for the 2024 Olympics due to lingering back issues. Despite stating his desire to play, injuries and other commitments have kept him from donning the national jersey in meaningful competition.
Currently with the Clippers after signing a one-year deal following a buyout from the Brooklyn Nets, Simmons is averaging a career-low 6.0 points, 4.7 rebounds, and 4.8 assists in 20.5 minutes per game. His future in the NBA remains uncertain, but his latest comments indicate he is looking ahead to international play.
If Simmons follows through on his 2028 commitment, it would mark his first Olympic appearance. The Boomers secured their first-ever Olympic medal with a bronze in Tokyo and will look to build on that momentum in Los Angeles.
