Ben Simmons may be hoping to catch the attention of his fellow former No. 1 overall pick.
The former NBA All-Star Simmons raised eyebrows on Wednesday with a post to his Instagram Story. Simmons posted several of LeBron James’ signature sneakers, specifically from James’ LeBron XXIII “Old Glory” line for Nike.
Check it out.
Ben Simmons via IG:
— 76ersMuse (@76ersMuse) August 6, 2026
Shared a photo of LeBron James sneakers on his Story pic.twitter.com/iEAH2Ttm5P
The timing here is certainly interesting as James just signed in free agency with the Philadelphia 76ers, Simmons’ old team. Even before James made his decision, Simmons was already openly longing for a reunion with the 76ers, whom he played for from 2016-22.
Simmons, who turned 30 earlier this summer, was a three-time All-Star, a two-time All-Defensive selection and a one-time All-NBA honoree during his time in Philly. But Simmons went unsigned for all of last season and only averaged 5.0 points, 4.7 rebounds, and 5.6 assists per game during his last stint in the league in 2024-25.
Still, Simmons certainly appears to be pitching himself right now to James and the 76ers, who notably have one open roster spot left to work with. That said, there is currently one major hurdle standing in the way of a Simmons return to the City of Brotherly Love.
