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Ben Simmons Swaps the Hardwood for the High Seas: NBA Star Bets Big on Pro Fishing Amid Comeback Hopes

For years, Ben Simmons has been one of the most polarising figures in the NBA — a former No. 1 draft pick, three-time All-Star, and defensive stalwart whose career has been marred by injuries, trade drama, and public scrutiny. But as the 2024–25 NBA season unfolds with Simmons still sidelined and his future with the Brooklyn Nets increasingly uncertain, the Australian-born basketball star is charting a surprising new course: professional fishing.

Yes, you read that right. While the basketball world waits to see if Simmons will return to form — or even return at all — the 28-year-old has quietly pivoted toward a niche but rapidly growing sport: competitive bass fishing. And he’s not just dabbling — he’s buying in.

Main Narrative: From Courtside to Lakeside

In a move that’s captured headlines from New York to Sydney, Ben Simmons has reportedly purchased a stake in a professional fishing team, signalling a serious commitment to the sport. According to verified reports from The New York Times and Andscape, Simmons is now part of an ownership group backing a team in Major League Fishing (MLF), the premier circuit for competitive bass fishing in the United States.

This development comes as the NBA season remains in limbo for Simmons, who has not played a meaningful game since early 2024 due to ongoing back issues and reported mental health challenges. While the Nets have not officially ruled him out for a comeback, sources close to the team suggest that Simmons’ focus has shifted — at least temporarily — away from basketball.

“Ben’s always been competitive, no matter the arena,” said a source familiar with Simmons’ mindset, speaking to Andscape on condition of anonymity. “Fishing gives him a way to stay in the game — just a different kind.”

The pivot has sparked a mix of amusement, curiosity, and concern among fans and analysts alike. At a time when many athletes are leveraging their fame into business ventures — from sneaker lines to media empires — Simmons’ foray into pro fishing stands out for its sheer unpredictability.

But is this just a side hustle, or a sign that the $264 million man is preparing for life after basketball?

Recent Updates: What We Know So Far

The timeline of Simmons’ fishing ambitions has unfolded rapidly over the past few months, with several key developments:

• December 2024: Reports emerge that Simmons has invested in a professional fishing team as part of an ownership consortium. The team competes in MLF events across the U.S., with a focus on bass fishing tournaments.
• January 2025: Simmons is spotted at multiple MLF events, including the Bass Pro Tour stop in Florida, where he was seen networking with anglers and team managers.
• February 2025: The New York Times confirms that Simmons has taken an active role in team strategy and recruitment, using his platform to attract sponsors and media attention to the sport.
• March 2025: Australian media outlet News.com.au dubs Simmons’ fishing venture a “$264 million disaster,” questioning whether the investment makes financial sense given the relatively modest earnings in pro fishing compared to the NBA.

Despite the scepticism, Simmons appears undeterred. In a rare public comment shared via his social media team, he stated: “I’ve always loved the water. Fishing is about patience, precision, and mental toughness — skills I’ve used on the court. This isn’t a distraction. It’s a new challenge.”

Notably, there has been no official statement from the Brooklyn Nets regarding Simmons’ fishing activities, though team officials have acknowledged his continued rehabilitation and “exploration of personal interests.”

Contextual Background: Why Fishing? Why Now?

To understand Simmons’ sudden interest in competitive fishing, it helps to look at his broader journey — both on and off the court.

Born in Melbourne, Australia, Simmons moved to the U.S. as a teenager to pursue basketball. He quickly rose through the ranks, becoming the top recruit in the nation and eventually the first overall pick in the 2016 NBA Draft by the Philadelphia 76ers. His early years were marked by promise: elite defense, playmaking, and a rare combination of size and athleticism.

But cracks began to show. A fractured relationship with the 76ers’ front office, a disastrous playoff performance in 2021, and a prolonged holdout led to his trade to the Brooklyn Nets in 2022. Since then, injuries — particularly a nagging back condition — have limited his availability. Off the court, Simmons has spoken openly about the pressures of fame, mental health struggles, and the toll of constant public scrutiny.

In this context, fishing offers something basketball no longer can: peace.

Competitive fishing, particularly bass fishing, has grown significantly in popularity over the past decade. Major League Fishing, founded in 2011, now boasts a multi-million-dollar media rights deal with FOX Sports and draws thousands of fans to live events. Top anglers can earn over $500,000 in prize money annually, and sponsorship deals with brands like Toyota, Bass Pro Shops, and Abu Garcia add to the financial appeal.

For an athlete like Simmons, the sport presents a unique blend of challenge and calm. Unlike basketball, where every move is scrutinised by millions, fishing is a solitary pursuit — one that rewards patience, observation, and mental discipline.

“It’s the ultimate reset,” said Dr. Emily Tran, a sports psychologist based in Sydney who has worked with elite athletes. “For someone like Ben, who’s been under a microscope for over a decade, stepping into a world where performance isn’t measured in points or rebounds can be incredibly liberating.”

There’s also a growing trend of athletes investing in niche sports. LeBron James has backed esports teams, Serena Williams has invested in women’s soccer, and Tom Brady has dabbled in pickleball. But Simmons’ move into fishing is arguably the most unconventional — and perhaps the most personal.

Immediate Effects: Ripples in the Sports World

Simmons’ fishing venture has already begun to influence both the NBA and the world of competitive angling.

In the basketball community, reactions have been mixed. Some teammates and former coaches have voiced support, praising Simmons for taking control of his narrative. “If this helps him heal and find joy, I’m all for it,” said former 76ers coach Doc Rivers in a recent interview.

Others, however, worry that the distraction could derail any chance of a successful NBA comeback. “At 28, he’s still in his prime,” said one NBA analyst on ESPN. “But if he’s not fully committed to rehab and training, teams will hesitate to invest in him.”

Meanwhile, in the fishing world, Simmons’ involvement has brought unprecedented attention to the sport. MLF viewership reportedly spiked by 37% during events where Simmons was present, and social media engagement around pro fishing hashtags like #BassLife and #MLFTour surged.

Sponsors are taking notice. Industry insiders report that several major brands are now exploring partnerships with MLF teams, hoping to tap into the crossover appeal of high-profile athletes like Simmons.

There’s also a cultural angle. As an Australian, Simmons brings international visibility to a sport that has traditionally been seen as American and rural. His presence could help broaden the appeal of competitive fishing in urban and global markets — including Australia, where recreational fishing is already hugely popular.

Future Outlook: What’s Next for Ben Simmons?

So, what does the future hold for Ben Simmons?

The most pressing question remains: Will he return to the NBA?

Sources close to the Nets suggest that Simmons is still undergoing physical therapy and mental health support, with no definitive timeline for a return. Team officials have emphasised that his health is the priority — and that any decision to resume playing will be made in consultation with medical professionals.

But Simmons’ fishing venture may be more than a hobby. Industry analysts speculate that he could be positioning himself for a post-basketball career in sports ownership or media. His involvement in MLF gives him hands-on experience in team management, sponsorship, and event promotion — skills that could translate to other sports or business ventures.

There’s also the possibility that fishing becomes a permanent passion. While few athletes transition fully from one pro sport to another, Simmons’ case is unique. He’s not trying to compete at the highest level — he’s investing, learning, and building a legacy beyond the court.

And let’s not forget the financial angle. Despite the News.com.au headline calling it a “$264 million