Ex-76ers Ben Simmons makes a ‘LeBron James’ move amid Philly reunion rumors

Ben Simmons is dropping hints about where he wants to play next, and he did it without saying a word. The former No. 1 overall pick shared a photo of LeBron James’ signature sneakers on his Instagram Story, a subtle nod toward a potential Philadelphia reunion that has picked up steam since James signed with the 76ers this offseason.

The gesture fits a pattern of breadcrumbs Simmons has dropped in recent weeks as speculation about his NBA future builds.

Simmons has not played since appearing in 18 games for the Los Angeles Clippers during the 2024-25 season, averaging just 2.9 points, 3.8 rebounds, and 3.1 assists in 16.4 minutes.

He sat out the entire 2025-26 campaign after his previous contract expired, but has since made clear retirement is not on his mind, telling Men’s Health he is fully focused on making a comeback and even floating a return to Philadelphia directly.

“Maybe I’ll go back to Philly,” Simmons said.

Reports out of Spain first sparked the reunion buzz, with outlet Blog de Basket claiming the 76ers were considering Simmons for their final roster spot on a one-year minimum contract, pointing to LeBron’s arrival and Philadelphia’s thin frontcourt depth as factors. Simmons and James share the same representation in Rich Paul and Klutch Sports, adding another layer of logic to the speculation, even as no major NBA insider has confirmed anything concrete.

ClutchPoints insider Brett Siegel poured cold water on the idea shortly after, noting the 76ers currently sit just $1.8 million below their first apron hard cap, leaving no real financial room to add Simmons without moving someone else off the roster first.

“There’s been no talk of them getting rid of anyone on their current roster,” Siegel said.

Simmons entered the league as Philadelphia’s No. 1 pick in 2016, winning Rookie of the Year and earning three All-Star selections before an ugly split led to his trade to the Brooklyn Nets in 2022.

Whether his latest social media hint turns into anything real remains to be seen, but for a player once at the center of one of the franchise’s most contentious breakups, the door back to Philadelphia appears at least slightly open.

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