Stephen A. Smith Criticizes Ben Simmons, Claims He Must Pay Teams to Sign Him

Ben Simmons is planning an NBA comeback after missing the entire previous season due to back issues and mental health struggles. However, not everyone supports his return. Prominent commentator Stephen A. Smith harshly criticized Simmons during a live broadcast, calling him "the biggest disgrace" he has ever seen in basketball history. Smith argued that Simmons is the only NBA player who would need to pay a team to sign him rather than the other way around, accusing him of being afraid to shoot on the court.

Smith further mocked Simmons' attitude toward playing, referencing Simmons' reported indifference about joining the Miami Heat and his appreciation for coach Erik Spoelstra and the organization. Smith questioned what Simmons actually likes about the team, emphasizing that the coach and organization expect him to play and earn his salary. He labeled Simmons as the biggest waste of talent in NBA history, if not in all sports, highlighting Simmons' extraordinary skill that has gone largely unfulfilled.

Simmons last played on April 30, 2025, in a playoff game for the Los Angeles Clippers against Denver. That season, he averaged 2.9 points, 3.8 rebounds, and 3.1 assists. Drafted first overall by Philadelphia in 2016, Simmons was a three-time All-Star between 2019 and 2021. His rookie season stats included 15.8 points, 8.2 assists, and 8.1 rebounds per game, maintaining similar numbers during his four years with the 76ers. He missed the entire 2021-2022 season due to injury and joined the Brooklyn Nets in 2022, where his performance sharply declined.