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[Saba Sports News] Ben Simmons is inviting all the “boy who cried wolf” jokes once again.
The LA Clippers forward made a surprising announcement over the weekend, revealing in an interview with basketball writer Grant Afseth that he plans to play for Australia in the 2028 L.A. Olympics.
“That’s what I’ve always wanted — to play in the Olympics,” said Simmons, who holds dual citizenship in Australia and the U.S. “If I’m healthy and I’m good to go, then I’ll definitely be there.”
Many assumed Simmons’ national team career was over, given his track record of committing to Australia for major tournaments—only to withdraw before the competition.
His repeated pullouts over the years led to speculation that Australia had moved on from him entirely. Before the 2023 FIBA World Cup, Simmons once again declared his intent to play, but this time it was Australia that snubbed him.
However, a major shakeup in the program could give Simmons a fresh start. With longtime head coach Brian Goorjian stepping down and new coach Adam Caporn taking over, Simmons expressed optimism about the change, calling Caporn “a great coach and a great person.”
Currently on a one-year deal with the Clippers, Simmons’ NBA future is uncertain, and by 2028, he’ll be 32 years old. But that isn’t stopping him from once again teasing a return to the international stage—setting up yet another round of “will he or won’t he” with Team Australia.