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'How Is This Still Happening in 2026?' -- Ben Simmons' 'Annual' Offseason 'Jump Shot Gimmick' Returns, Reignites Mockery Amid NBA Comeback Bid
Ben Simmons continues to make major strides amid his NBA comeback bid, reportedly participating “with zero restrictions at a player-led private minicamp for the Australian men’s basketball team” this week.
However, Simmons’ latest offseason highlights did little to win over the NBA world, instead reigniting familiar mockery of the 2016 No. 1 pick.
Ben Simmons’ Offseason Shooting Footage Revives Longstanding Joke
At his peak, Simmons was viewed as one of the NBA’s premier defenders and facilitators, with his 6-foot-10 frame placing him among the league’s most unique players. Unfortunately for the 30-year-old, a combination of injuries and mental confidence blocks amid mounting scrutiny contributed to his sharp decline.
Amid Simmons’ up-and-down basketball journey, 3-point shooting has remained a constant weakness, as he has shot a meager 5-for-36 (13.9%) for his career. While the three-time All-Star has struggled to demonstrate in-game shooting improvements, his ability to thrive in offseason settings has long been a source of confusion and irritation.
After sitting out the entire 2025-26 season with a back injury, Simmons is angling to make a comeback. Per ESPN’s Marc J. Spears , “several NBA teams have expressed interest in Simmons, who is open to signing a minimum contract.” Spears added that “one source said he has a non-guaranteed offer on the table for training camp with a Western Conference team.”
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Simmons showcased his readiness for another shot in the big leagues this week, playing alongside his Australian counterparts, including Josh Giddey, Dyson Daniels, and Jock Landale, with the footage going viral on Tuesday.
In the clip, Simmons can be seen draining a jumper with ease.
The NBA community on X wasn’t buying his improvements, though, instead reviving an old joke about the former Philadelphia 76ers star.
“The annual Ben Simmons offseason jump shot video,” an Australian fan page quipped .
“How is this still happening in 2026??????” another user questioned .
“I see this every year and get fooled every year,” a 76ers supporter wrote .
“Ben Simmons jump shot gimmick in the glorious 2026,” Kyrie Center joked .
“Oh my God, the ancient texts have been revived,” a Boston Celtics supporter reacted .
“Took a little longer than expected, but there it is,” another remarked .
Despite facing widespread mockery whenever his highlights make the rounds on social media, Simmons is still only 30, giving him plenty of time to redeem himself, should he stay relatively healthy.
Across 51 appearances with the Brooklyn Nets and Los Angeles Clippers in the 2024-25 campaign, Simmons averaged 5.0 points, 4.7 rebounds, 5.6 assists, 0.7 steals, and 0.5 blocks per game on 52.0% shooting.
This article originally appeared on Pro Football Network .
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