Ben Simmons is making his NBA comeback with the Sacramento Kings after missing all of last season.
Simmons made his debut with the Kings in the starting lineup during a preseason game against the Golden State Warriors. He played 9 minutes and recorded 7 point and an assist.
According to Marc Spears of Andscape, the Australian guard is set to remain in the starting lineup for Sacramento's season opener against the Los Angeles Clippers.
After playing limited games in a smaller role for the past few seasons with the Brooklyn Nets and Clippers due to injuries, Simmons is now ready to take up a bigger role once again in the starting lineup with the Kings.
Simmons felt good after first game back
Ben Simmons
Ben Simmons
Simmons expressed feeling good coming back to play basketball after missing a year. He spoke to media about how his comeback following the game against the Warriors.
"It felt really good," Simmons said. "When you're out for a year and come back, it's a good feeling to just be out there and compete and get the first one out of the way.
"A lot of it is just being healthy and being able to do what I do, and also adding to that, being more aggressive," Simmons added. "I'm older now. I'm about the same player I was a few years ago, especially given that I'm healthy."
Despite the time away, Simmons believes his experience has made him a smarter player.
"The game has just slowed down a lot for me, and I see a lot more now," he said. "Having a lot of years under my belt, the game has slowed down for me, and I can make better decisions.
"Obviously, I haven't played in a year, but I still feel confident out there to make the right plays."