Ben Simmons has officially signed a one-year, $3.5 million contract with the Sacramento Kings, revealing the simple reason behind his decision. The veteran forward said the first team to personally evaluate his health and on-court work would earn his commitment, a promise fulfilled when Kings general manager Scott Perry traveled to Florida in late August.
Speaking at Media Day, Simmons explained his mindset after missing the entire 2025-26 NBA season. His signing comes as the Kings look to bolster their roster following a 98-110 preseason loss to the Portland Trail Blazers on October 13.
Simmons had a clear theory for his free agency. He believed any team that invested time to see him in person would recognize his readiness and sign him. Several organizations offered training camp invitations, but only the Kings sent their general manager for a direct assessment.
"It's not in the cocky way or anything, but for me, I knew the first team that came to see me, to see where I was at physically and on the court, they were going to sign me," Simmons told reporters. "That's how I felt from the moment Scott Perry came down and saw me."
Perry's trip included watching a workout and holding an hour-long meeting with Simmons. The player later visited Sacramento for medical exams, another on-court session, and meetings with head coach Doug Christie before finalizing the deal.
The Kings specifically targeted Simmons for his defensive versatility, playmaking, and size. At 6-foot-10, he provides a unique skillset behind rookie point guard Darius Acuff Jr. Sacramento hopes his ability to guard multiple positions and facilitate offense will strengthen their rotation.
Simmons' confidence stems from finally being healthy. "I'm just excited to get going and be able to do it healthy," Simmons said. "I'm taking a few hits already in practice and it felt great. I'm ready to go."
Even in a potentially reduced offensive role, his defensive impact and transition play could be significant. The Kings' preseason results highlight areas for improvement, including losses to the Golden State Warriors (111-106 on Oct. 10) and the Los Angeles Lakers twice (114-110 on Oct. 8 and 103-127 on Oct. 5).
The team's integration of new pieces like Simmons is happening during a challenging exhibition schedule. Their 1-3 preseason record provides a backdrop for his arrival. Coaches are evaluating lineups and rotations before the regular season tips off.
Simmons' signing is a low-risk, high-reward move for a franchise seeking defensive identity. His contract reflects both his recent injury history and the potential upside if he returns to form. The Kings' front office demonstrated clear intent by making him a priority visit.
The immediate focus is their final preseason contest against the San Antonio Spurs on October 16. This game offers another chance to build chemistry and test rotations. Fans can track the team's progress and view the full schedule on our schedule page.
Training camp continues as Coach Christie molds his roster. Simmons' health and adaptation to the system will be watched closely. His journey from a season-long absence to a fresh start in Sacramento is now underway, with the Kings betting his unique talents can help them compete.
