The National Basketball League has expressed interest in bringing Ben Simmons home as his NBA future remains uncertain.
NBL owner and executive director Larry Kestelman told CODE Sports that Simmons is “too good a talent not to be playing basketball” and confirmed he plans to reach out to the former No. 1 draft pick. “I hope he comes and plays for the passion of it and a deal in the NBL is somewhere where his passion could be reignited,” Kestelman said, via NBL.com.eu.
Simmons, 29, has spent the offseason weighing his options after declining a one-year minimum offer from the New York Knicks. The Boston Celtics also showed interest, though the extent of their pursuit has not been detailed, according to reporting from Marc Stein.
The three-time All-Star is seeking a deal above the veteran minimum following a season split between the Brooklyn Nets and Los Angeles Clippers. In 50 games, he averaged 5.1 points, 4.9 rebounds, and 5.6 assists, while appearing in limited minutes during the playoffs.
Speculation about a potential move to the NBL sparked debate this week. Former NBA forward and NBL legend Chris Anstey pushed back against the idea that Simmons would “dominate” the Australian league. Speaking on NBL Now, Anstey said such claims were disrespectful to current players.
“Would he dominate? Absolutely not,” Anstey said. “He’s a very big guard who can handle the ball or a very small big, but I’m unsure if he’d want to come and do that. He can’t shoot the ball and would get fouled a lot.”
NBL expert Damon Lowery had suggested Simmons’ size and playmaking ability would make him nearly unstoppable in the league, sparking Anstey’s rebuttal. The contrasting views highlight both the intrigue and skepticism surrounding the possibility of Simmons joining Australia’s top competition.
Simmons’ situation has been complicated by off-court developments as well. His longtime agent, Bernie Lee, recently informed the NBPA that he is no longer representing him, further clouding his next steps.
Despite the uncertainty, Simmons’ resume remains one of the most decorated of any Australian player. He was Rookie of the Year in 2018, made three consecutive All-Star teams, and twice earned All-Defensive First Team honors while with the Philadelphia 76ers.
