Ben Simmons Shifts Into Pro Sport Fishing
Three-time NBA All-Star Ben Simmons — currently a free agent — has put his long-anticipated NBA return on pause to pursue a new venture in professional sport fishing. Simmons was recently announced as the controlling operator of the South Florida Sails, a team competing in the Sport Fishing Championship (SFC), a professional offshore saltwater fishing league with 16 clubs across the U.S. and seasonal point-based tournaments.
He describes the SFC as akin to Formula 1 or LIV Golf but for fishing, with competitions targeting species like white marlin, blue marlin, sailfish, and striped marlin. Celebrities and athletes — including golf stars and NFL figures — are involved as fellow team owners in the league.
NBA Status: Still Working Toward Comeback
Although Simmons is exploring fishing at a professional level, he hasn’t officially retired from basketball. He continues training and working on his conditioning with hopes of returning to the NBA when fully healthy. Simmons has stated he doesn’t want to occupy a roster spot unless he can contribute meaningfully, emphasizing he’s focused on recovery from past injuries before committing to hoop again.
Career Context
Simmons began his NBA career as the No. 1 overall pick by the Philadelphia 76ers in 2016 and earned Rookie of the Year honors. After stints with the Brooklyn Nets and a brief period with the Los Angeles Clippers in the 2024-25 season, injuries and free-agency status have left his future in the league uncertain. While he remains confident in his ability if fully fit, his immediate focus is balancing his physical rehab with this new competitive fishing role.
Ben Simmons has paused his bid to return to NBA competition — not due to retirement, but to throw himself into the world of professional sport fishing as a team owner in a growing competitive league, all while continuing his rehabilitation and keeping the door open to basketball once he’s healthy and ready.
