Ben Simmons Eyes Boomers Return for LA 2028 Olympic Campaign

Three-time NBA All-Star, Ben Simmons, has signalled his intent to return to the international basketball stage, setting his sights on the Australian Boomers’ roster for the 2028 Los Angeles Olympic Games.

The 29-year-old, who has not represented Australia at the senior level since the 2013 FIBA Oceania Championships, is reportedly working toward a rigorous physical and mental recovery to facilitate a potential national team comeback.

Path to the Boomers

The ambition was confirmed by Boomers assistant coach and Simmons’ godfather, David Patrick, during a recent appearance on the basketball.com.au podcast Cut to the Jase.

Patrick noted that while Simmons has enjoyed significant success at the youth level, representing the Boomers in the Olympic arena remains a marquee goal he has yet to achieve.

“Believe it or not, he wants to wear it and I think the Olympics is kind of his goal.”

“I think as he’s got older and matured like all of us do, I think that’s one thing he hasn’t ticked off the box, playing for his country…

“I think he’s on track to trying to get healthy mentally and physically, and I think it’s something that he will try to do moving forward,” Patrick said

Patrick acknowledged that a return to elite international competition requires a structured approach for a player who has navigated a challenging period following his departure from the NBA. Simmons last featured in an NBA game on May 30, 2025, while with the Los Angeles Clippers.

Current Status and Career Pivot

Since concluding his 2024-25 NBA campaign, Simmons has remained an unrestricted free agent. While he has previously expressed an interest in an NBA return, he has notably transitioned into professional sport fishing.

As the controlling owner of the South Florida Sails, Simmons recently celebrated his first major title, winning the 2026 Sport Fishing Championship (SFC) Walker’s Cay Open in The Bahamas.

Despite his recent success in professional angling, the former No. 1 overall draft pick has maintained that he is not retired from basketball. He continues to weigh his professional options while balancing his physical conditioning requirements.

Don’t miss out on the latest in sports business – Subscribe today to the free Ministry of Sport newsletter and stay ahead of the game. For even more exclusive insights, event tickets, professional development and networking events, become a MoS Member today!.