Ben Simmons is making headlines yet again, this time for diving into the world of professional fishing. The former NBA star, who has experienced a rollercoaster career, is now the controlling operator of the South Florida Sails in the Sport Fishing Championship, marking a significant departure from the basketball court.
Simmons’ journey in basketball has been anything but conventional. A highly-touted recruit, he emerged as a standout at LSU before being selected as the No. 1 overall pick in the 2016 NBA Draft. Early in his career with the Philadelphia 76ers, he showcased his potential as a rising star but later faced challenges that hindered his development; his inability to shoot consistently led to diminished playing time in the NBA.
Now, Simmons compares competitive fishing to Formula 1 and LIV Golf, suggesting that it represents a new frontier in sports. “The way I see it, it’s like the new F1 for fishing. The new LIV Golf for fishing,” he explained. “It’s a league of 16 teams, which is growing and expanding. We’ll compete in various tournaments, and there’ll be a champion crowned at the end.” This league will involve targeting species such as white marlin, blue marlin, sailfish, and striped marlin, each with its scoring system.
Simmons expressed his admiration for the sport, emphasizing its complexity and unique nature. “It’s a very niche sport… and once you experience it, you’re kind of in awe of what the sport is. The technique is intricate, and many people don’t grasp the details,” he remarked. The former athlete indicated that fishing isn’t just leisure; it’s a commitment that often involves fishing on high-end vessels for extended periods.
Despite the shift in focus, Simmons remains mindful of his basketball career. Having played only 18 games with the Los Angeles Clippers last season due to injury, he finds himself currently as an unrestricted free agent. Simmons insists that he is not just looking for any team but is aiming to return to the NBA at his best. “I want to get to the best of my ability and physical peak to compete,” he stated, emphasizing that he doesn’t wish to occupy a spot on a roster without contributing meaningfully.
At just 29 years old, Simmons has a long career ahead of him. With fishing now part of his narrative, he is embracing new opportunities while still keeping his basketball ambitions alive. As he embarks on this fresh venture, fans and critics alike will be intrigued to see where his newfound passion for fishing takes him.