Ben Simmons, the Los Angeles Clippers’ standout, has encountered several injury challenges throughout his professional career. These ongoing setbacks have sparked questions among fans, analysts, and players alike about Simmons’ dedication to basketball.
In March 2023, Simmons experienced nerve impingement in his lower back, which caused him to miss several games. Although he underwent a microscopic partial discectomy to address his lower back issue, the lingering effects continue to impact his performance on the court. However, Simmons’s dedication to basketball is unwavering. In a recent interview, he confidently dismissed any doubts regarding his passion for the game.
“Basketball is my life. I don’t want to play with my life. So that’s who I am. It’s in the family, it’s in the blood. This is what I do. It’s like walking. I love it. This is just what I do. Wake up, basketball’s my thing. And I love the game. I love the opportunities it’s given me in life and my family. So, I mean, even when I step away from the game one day, I’ll still be involved in some aspect, whether it’s coaching, whether it’s helping the youth and giving back. That’s just what I’m going to do.” Simmons said (via ClutchPoints).
Ben Simmons says basketball is life despite people questioning his love for the game
— NBACentral (@TheDunkCentral) March 17, 2025
“Basketball is my life. I don't want to play with my life. So that's who I am. It's in the family, it's in the blood. This is what I do. It's like walking. I love it. This is just what I do.… pic.twitter.com/Bdrpi9whsZ
His recent statement demonstrates that basketball will continue to be a top priority for Simmons. Additionally, he has made a significant announcement regarding his plans for the 2028 LA Olympics.
Ben Simmons Shares Insights From His Recovery Journey
Simmons’ on-court minutes have significantly declined from season to season due to injuries. His lower back issues have led to him missing a majority of games each year. During the 2022-23 season, Simmons played only 42 games, and in the 2023-24 season, that number dropped to just 15. However, after recovering, he has started to play more regularly, appearing in 40 games during the ongoing 2024-25 NBA season. In a recent interview with ClutchPoints, Simmons reflected on his recovery journey.
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“People don’t understand. It’s … It’s everything. It’s your recovery, it’s the strength work you’re doing, it’s the mobility work you do, and then oftentimes, you have injuries that affects other parts of your body where you’re compensating more, so it’s staying on top of everything in terms of your legs, your hips, your back, your knees. Everything plays a role in it. And it’s draining. It’s fatiguing. It’s all of those things, but it comes with it.” Simmons said.
The Los Angeles Clippers are currently in the 8th spot in the Western Conference standings with a record of 30 wins and 30 losses. They will play their next game against the Cleveland Cavaliers at the Intuit Dome.
