As the Sacramento Kings prepare to begin training camp ahead of the 2026-27 season, general manager Scott Perry revealed Ben Simmons' message about why he chose Sacramento for his NBA comeback.

During an appearance on Sactown Sports 1140 on Friday, Perry detailed the process that led to the Kings signing Simmons and recalled a conversation with the former All-Star about his motivation to return to the league.

“Earlier in the summer, Ben was playing over in Australia working out with the Australian national team and a couple of members of my staff were in touch with people who were there watching that camp and people we value their evaluations or opinions on what’s going on,” Perry said. “Ben is healthy now and he’s really looking to make a comeback in the game and is really interested – just looking for the right place.”

Perry eventually connected with Simmons and traveled to Miami to watch him work out. The Kings general manager then spent roughly an hour talking with Simmons about his career and what motivated him to attempt an NBA comeback.

"I just miss playing basketball, I miss competing, I miss being part of a team…"

Sacramento Kings GM Scott Perry joined @CarmichaelDave & @JasonRoss1140 and shared what Ben Simmons told him about why he wanted to return to the NBA and why that conversation made an impression… pic.twitter.com/qikBBvmq9H

— Sactown Sports 1140 (@Sactown1140) September 25, 2026

Ben Simmons opens up on motivation behind NBA comeback with Kings

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Perry specifically wanted to know why Simmons, who had already earned significant money and accolades during his career, wanted to play again.

“And a couple of things that came out right away from him he said, ‘Hey Scott, this is the first time I’ve been healthy in two years and I’ve been healthy going on for four, five months,’” Perry said. “And secondly, and probably most importantly, he said, ‘I just miss playing basketball. I miss competing, I miss being a part of a team, and I just want to be able to contribute to a team and get back to playing basketball.’ So that made a great impression on me and here we are.”

Simmons' health has been one of the biggest obstacles during the latter portion of his career. Back issues contributed to his struggles after the Philadelphia 76ers traded him to the Brooklyn Nets in 2022, and he has not played a full NBA season since.

The Kings are now giving Simmons an opportunity to restart his career in Sacramento. The 30-year-old last appeared in the NBA during the 2024-25 season, finishing the campaign with the Los Angeles Clippers after reaching a buyout agreement with Brooklyn.

After time away from the league, Simmons' message to Perry made his motivation clear. He wants to stay healthy, compete again and contribute to a Kings team preparing for a new season.