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Ben Simmons is opening up about the defining moments of his basketball career, including the infamous non-dunk that became a turning point during the Philadelphia 76ers’ 2021 playoff collapse. His reflections are featured in Being Ben, a new ESPN documentary that examines his rise, struggles, time away from basketball, and return to the NBA.
The documentary debuts at 4 p.m. Sunday on ESPN. It follows Simmons from his childhood in Australia through his selection as the No. 1 overall pick in the 2016 NBA Draft, his All-Star years in Philadelphia, and the difficult period that followed his departure from the Sixers.
Ben Simmons Reveals the Breaking Point Behind His Sixers Exit
The most closely examined moment in Being Ben comes from Game 7 of the 2021 Eastern Conference semifinals. Philadelphia lost to the Atlanta Hawks, ending a season in which the Sixers had entered the playoffs as the Eastern Conference’s No. 1 seed.
Late in the game, Simmons passed up an opportunity to dunk near the basket. The decision quickly became one of the most replayed and debated moments in recent NBA history. His performance throughout the series also drew intense criticism, particularly because of his reluctance to shoot and his struggles at the free-throw line.
After the defeat, a reporter asked Sixers coach Doc Rivers whether Simmons could be the point guard on a championship team. Rivers responded that he did not know the answer.
In the documentary, Simmons describes that response as a devastating breach of trust. “What a piece of s—,” he said, recalling his immediate reaction. He also acknowledged that Rivers had professional pressures, but felt certain conversations should have been handled differently.
“When times get tough, people start panicking,” Simmons said. “People throw people under the bus, and that’s just what happened.”
A Rising Star’s Shooting Struggles Become a Critical Issue
Simmons entered the NBA with extraordinary expectations. He won Rookie of the Year honors for the 2017-18 season and developed into an elite passer, defender, and transition playmaker. However, his shooting limitations remained a constant concern during his Sixers tenure.
The ambidextrous guard never developed a dependable jump shot in Philadelphia. Through seven NBA seasons, he has shot 59.2% from the free-throw line and made only five three-pointers. While Rivers and other coaches defended his all-around impact, former Sixers teammate Danny Green believes the lack of shooting affected Simmons’ growth as a franchise player.
“When you’re a young player, you’re a franchise guy, they’re building something around you, you gotta step outside the box and try to grow,” Green said.
- Simmons was selected first overall in the 2016 NBA Draft.
- He became an All-Star and an elite perimeter defender with Philadelphia.
- His shooting and free-throw struggles intensified during the 2021 playoffs.
- He requested a trade after the season and eventually left the Sixers.
Fishing Offered Simmons a Powerful Escape From Basketball
Being Ben also explores the period when Simmons stepped away from the NBA. Nagging back injuries and the intense criticism surrounding his performance kept him away from the court for more than a year.
During that time, fishing became an important outlet. Simmons owns the South Florida Sails, a professional fishing team, and the team won the 2026 Walker’s Cay Open in the Bahamas. The success gave him a way to focus on something outside basketball while continuing his physical rehabilitation.
For Simmons, fishing was more than a hobby. It offered a mental reset after several turbulent seasons and helped him separate his identity from the expectations attached to being a former No. 1 pick.
Ben Simmons Begins a Surprising NBA Comeback in Sacramento
The documentary concludes with Simmons’ return to the NBA. In September, he signed a one-year, $3.5 million contract with the Sacramento Kings. The deal gives the 30-year-old guard an opportunity to rebuild his reputation and show that he can still contribute as a defender, facilitator, and versatile ballhandler.
Andscape’s Marc J. Spears reported that Simmons is expected to start for Sacramento on opening night. That possibility adds another compelling layer to his comeback, particularly after he spent more than a year away from NBA competition.
The Kings will hope Simmons can bring defensive intensity, passing ability, and veteran leadership to their lineup. Simmons, meanwhile, faces the challenge of proving he can play confidently under pressure while managing the physical issues that have interrupted his career.
His return will not erase the controversy surrounding the 2021 playoff series. However, it gives him a fresh chance to reshape the conversation. The next stage of Simmons’ career may depend less on his past mistakes and more on how aggressively he embraces the game again.
Frequently Asked Questions
When does the Ben Simmons documentary premiere?
Being Ben debuts at 4 p.m. Sunday on ESPN.
What does the documentary say about the 2021 non-dunk?
The documentary revisits Simmons’ decision to pass instead of dunking late in Game 7 against the Atlanta Hawks. Simmons also discusses Doc Rivers’ comments after the loss and how they affected their relationship.
Why did Ben Simmons step away from basketball?
Simmons dealt with nagging back injuries and the mental strain connected to criticism of his performance. During his absence, he focused on rehabilitation and professional fishing.
Which team did Ben Simmons join in 2026?
Simmons signed a one-year, $3.5 million contract with the Sacramento Kings in September 2026.
Is Ben Simmons expected to start for the Kings?
According to a report from Andscape’s Marc J. Spears, Simmons is expected to start for Sacramento on opening night.
