Australian basketball star Ben Simmons is looking beyond his NBA career, hinting at a future investment in Australian basketball that could help supercharge the National Basketball League (NBL). The 28-year-old Brooklyn Nets player, who signed a $177 million max contract with the Philadelphia 76ers in 2019, revealed his interest in becoming an owner or part-owner of an NBL team, with the goal of supporting the sport’s growth in Australia.
“Being involved with the NBL somehow, owning a team in some aspect—I’d love to be involved with Australian basketball,” Simmons told News Corp. “That’s ultimately a dream of mine, to be able to give back to Australian basketball.”
A Growing Investment Trend in the NBL
If Simmons joins the NBL ownership ranks, he will be in good company. The league has attracted high-profile investors since billionaire Larry Kestelman revitalized it in 2015. Former NBA players Andrew Bogut and Luc Longley are part of the Sydney Kings’ ownership, while Australian NBA player Dante Exum and tennis star Nick Kyrgios hold stakes in the South East Melbourne Phoenix. NBA stars like Khris Middleton (Brisbane Bullets) and former superstar Carmelo Anthony, who supports the Next Stars program as a global ambassador, have also shown confidence in the league’s future.
Simmons’ potential investment could add to the NBL’s momentum, which has become a significant pathway to the NBA for young talent. The league’s popularity and visibility continue to rise as it attracts global players and owners, creating a fertile environment for growth and fan engagement.
The Comeback Trail and Olympic Aspirations
Currently, Simmons is focused on his NBA comeback with the Brooklyn Nets after battling a series of setbacks, including back surgery and mental health challenges. Although he missed out on the 2024 Paris Olympics due to his recovery, he has set his sights on wearing the green and gold for Australia at the 2028 Los Angeles Olympics. “It’s my dream. I speak about it with my friends back home all the time. I want to put on that green and gold and represent [Australia],” Simmons said, expressing his commitment to achieving what he calls a missing piece in his basketball career.
The NBA star, drafted as the No. 1 overall pick by the 76ers in 2016, has faced challenges since joining the league. A high-profile trade to the Nets in 2022 offered him a fresh start, but injuries continued to limit his time on the court. As he now enters the final year of his max contract, Simmons is gradually re-establishing himself, albeit with limited minutes as he rebuilds from surgery.
A Legacy in the Making?
As Simmons looks ahead to life beyond the NBA, his interest in the NBL underscores his commitment to supporting Australian basketball. His investment could have a transformative impact on the league, enhancing its visibility and attracting more talent. With Simmons’ ambition to leave a lasting legacy both on and off the court, could his potential involvement in the NBL set a new standard for international investment in Australian basketball?
Sources for this article include:
Statements from Ben Simmons and NBL investment records from Australian media.
