Ben Simmons is preparing to return to the NBA after missing the entire 2025-26 season. His comeback has already drawn attention. The three-time All-Star signed a one-year, $3.5 million contract with the Sacramento Kings, giving him another chance to rebuild his career.

Simmons’ godfather and former LSU coach David Patrick also shared a positive update. Patrick spoke to Matt George about Simmons on The Matt & Kayla Show on Sactown Sports 1140. He discussed Simmons’ mindset, confidence, and training. Patrick said Simmons now looks more excited about basketball after his recent struggles.

“His hunger for the game is back,” Patrick said. 

Patrick’s comment suggests that Simmons has found his desire to play basketball again. In the same show, via YouTube, Patrick then talked about something unusual for Simmons.

He said Ben Simmons is now taking three-point shots during live play. Simmons has never been known as a strong three-point shooter.

“He comes to camp, he’s shooting threes in live play, doesn’t care whether they make or miss,” Patrick said. 

Patrick seemed more focused on Simmons taking the shots than whether he makes them. For Simmons, showing the confidence to shoot could be an important step.

Patrick also said Simmons’ confidence has grown because of his work in the gym. He believes regular shooting practice has helped Simmons believe in himself again.

“I think when you're in the gym, and you're putting in shots, that confidence comes back from putting in work,” Patrick said. 

This new confidence could be very important for Simmons. His recent NBA struggles have often raised questions about his aggression and confidence on the court. Now, his renewed mindset could give him a fresh start with the Kings.

Ben Simmons could bring experience to Sacramento 

The update is even more important because Simmons has an important role to play for the Kings after missing a full season.

According to a report by Siddhant Gupta of Fadeaway World, Sacramento is expected to use the 30-year-old as a backup point guard behind Darius Acuff Jr.

The report said Simmons could help the Kings’ second unit with his passing, defense, and ability to play different roles. The team may not expect him to score a lot of points.

This makes Patrick’s comments about Simmons’ confidence even more important. Simmons’ decision not to shoot had become a major topic during his recent NBA career.

Patrick remembered watching Simmons play at LSU the last time he saw him. He said Simmons now looks much more willing to take three-point shots.

“Three-point shooting doesn't define his career, Patrick said. “For whatever reason, it has during his time in the NBA. But he would never attempt those shots the last time I saw him.”

So, the biggest change may not be Simmons becoming a great shooter. Instead, it could be his willingness to play with more freedom and confidence.

Fadeaway World also reported that Simmons averaged 5.0 points, 4.7 rebounds, and 5.6 assists per game in his last season in 2024-25. If Patrick’s comments are correct, a healthier and more confident Simmons could still help the Kings.

Simmons does not need to return to his All-Star level to make his comeback useful for Sacramento. His defense, passing, and new confidence could make his return an interesting one for the Kings.

Written by

Kapil Manghnani

Kapil Manghnani brings over 4.5 years of experience in sports journalism, covering a wide range of sports, including Soccer, NHL, Tennis, Gymnastics, NASCAR, Swimming, and more. He has written for leading sports platforms, producing everything from breaking news and features to in-depth analysis, opinion pieces, long-form stories, and short-form content. Beyond articles, he has also scripted long-form storytelling videos for YouTube channels. His work focuses on delivering well-researched, engaging, and reader-first sports content across multiple formats.

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