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Ben Simmons Joins Australia Minicamp While Courting NBA Comeback

Unrestricted practice gives NBA clubs a chance to assess his reported regained athleticism, medical durability, readiness for a low‑risk roster tryout.

Overview

  • Simmons is practicing with “zero restrictions” at a player‑led Australian national team minicamp in Melbourne, which began Monday, and he paid his own way to attend.
  • Multiple outlets report several NBA teams have checked on him and one unnamed Western Conference club has extended a non‑guaranteed training‑camp invite.
  • He is publicly open to signing a veteran‑minimum contract as a low‑risk route back to the league if teams are satisfied with his health and on‑court work.
  • David Patrick, an assistant on the Boomers staff, told reporters Simmons has “regained his athleticism,” and Simmons says he feels the best he has in years.
  • Simmons was the 2016 No.1 pick and a three‑time All‑Star whose career has been limited by recurring back injuries; teams will prioritize season‑long durability before offering guaranteed deals and his camp showing could also affect his push to make Australia’s 2028 Olympic roster.