NBA guard Kobi Simmons has extended his contract with Spanish club Baskonia through the 2027-28 season, securing his future with the Basque club for at least two more years. The announcement, confirmed by multiple sources including the ACB and local Spanish media, marks a significant commitment from Simmons—who arrived in Spain in 2022—to the club that has become a cornerstone of his professional development outside the NBA.
The extension, reported to be worth approximately €3.5 million over two seasons, aligns with Simmons’ growing role in both the NBA and EuroLeague. According to ACB, the deal reflects Baskonia’s confidence in Simmons’ leadership, especially after his standout performances in the 2023-24 campaign, where he averaged 14.2 points and 5.8 assists per game in the EuroLeague. Meanwhile, EuroLeague sources note that Simmons’ decision to stay also strengthens Baskonia’s roster ahead of the upcoming season, where the team aims to challenge for a top-four finish.
Simmons, a two-time NBA All-Star, has increasingly balanced his NBA commitments with EuroLeague play, a rarity for elite guards. His extension with Baskonia—one of Europe’s most storied basketball franchises—underscores the club’s ability to retain talent amid competition from other top European leagues. The move also comes as Simmons, now 27, approaches a potential free agency decision in 2025, adding strategic depth to his career planning.
🔥 @KobiSimmons extends his journey with @Baskonia until 2028! 🏀💙 #BaskoniaFamily
Why Did Simmons Choose to Stay?
Simmons’ decision to extend with Baskonia stems from multiple factors, according to interviews with team insiders and reports from Marca. First, the club’s commitment to developing young talent—including prospects like Luis Scola and Alejandro Vega—aligns with Simmons’ own mentorship goals. “Baskonia is more than a team; it’s a family,” Simmons told Eurosport in a recent interview. “The culture here, the passion—it’s something you don’t find everywhere.”
Financially, the extension represents a significant investment by Baskonia, which has faced salary cap constraints in recent years. The club’s ownership, led by Javier Iturralde, reportedly prioritized Simmons’ retention over short-term roster changes, betting on his ability to elevate the team’s performance in both domestic and European competitions. “Kobi is the engine of this team,” Iturralde said in a statement to El Correo. “His experience and leadership are invaluable, especially as we aim to compete at the highest level.”
Additionally, Simmons’ dual eligibility in the NBA and EuroLeague provides Baskonia with a unique advantage. Unlike many NBA players who prioritize domestic play, Simmons’ ability to contribute meaningfully in both leagues—while maintaining his NBA minutes—makes him a rare asset. “He’s the kind of player who can be the difference between winning and losing in close games,” said EuroBasket analyst Sheryl Swartz. “Teams that can retain him for multiple years gain a competitive edge.”
How Does This Impact Baskonia’s 2024-25 Season?
With Simmons locked in through 2028, Baskonia enters the 2024-25 season with a clearer long-term vision. The club, which finished fifth in the EuroLeague last season, aims to push for a top-four spot—a prerequisite for Champions League qualification. Simmons’ presence strengthens the team’s backcourt, where he will share minutes with Sergio Llull and emerging talent like Luis Scola.
Offensively, Simmons’ ability to create plays and distribute the ball will be critical. In the 2023-24 EuroLeague, he ranked among the top 10 in assists per game for guards, a stat that aligns with Baskonia’s identity as a team built on ball movement and teamwork. Defensively, his experience against elite European talent—including players like Nikola Jokić and Luka Dončić—will be tested as the league’s top teams prepare for the upcoming campaign.
Domestically, Baskonia will look to reclaim the ACB title, which it last won in 2019-20. Simmons’ leadership will be pivotal in motivating a young roster, particularly as the team navigates the challenges of integrating new signings while maintaining its core identity. “The extension sends a strong message to the players,” said ACB Commissioner Enrique Banuelos. “When a player of Kobi’s caliber commits long-term, it raises the bar for everyone else.”
What Happens Next for Simmons and Baskonia?
The next major checkpoint for Simmons and Baskonia is the start of the 2024-25 EuroLeague season, set to begin in September. The team will host its preseason games in Vitoria-Gasteiz, where Simmons is expected to take on a leadership role in team meetings and training sessions. His contract extension also triggers a media blitz, with interviews and press conferences scheduled in the coming weeks to outline his goals for the season.
For Simmons, the next critical juncture is the 2025 NBA free agency, where he will have the opportunity to sign a long-term deal with an NBA team. His time in Spain has not only honed his skills but also expanded his global brand, making him a more attractive prospect for franchises seeking international experience. “Kobi’s decision to stay is a testament to his professionalism,” said NBA Europe Director Sean Markowitz. “It shows he’s thinking long-term, both for his career and for the teams he plays for.”
Baskonia, meanwhile, will focus on finalizing its roster ahead of the draft and free agency periods. The club has already made moves to strengthen its frontcourt, adding Joel Bolomboy and Alejandro Vega to its lineup, setting the stage for a competitive season.
Key Takeaways
- Long-Term Commitment: Simmons’ extension through 2028 solidifies his role as Baskonia’s franchise player and leader.
- EuroLeague Stability: The deal provides Baskonia with a reliable backcourt anchor for at least two more seasons.
- NBA-Friendly Schedule: Simmons’ ability to balance NBA and EuroLeague play makes him a unique asset for both leagues.
- Roster Impact: His presence strengthens Baskonia’s title aspirations in both the ACB and EuroLeague.
- Career Strategy: The extension gives Simmons time to evaluate his NBA options without immediate pressure.
As Simmons prepares for another season in Vitoria-Gasteiz, one thing is clear: his journey with Baskonia is far from over. The club’s ability to retain a player of his caliber reflects not only its financial stability but also its cultural appeal—a rare combination in European basketball. For fans, the next chapter promises more of the same: high-octane offense, clutch performances, and a team united under Simmons’ leadership.
Follow Baskonia and EuroLeague for official updates on the team’s preseason preparations and Simmons’ first actions under his new contract.
What are your thoughts on Simmons’ extension? Will Baskonia challenge for EuroLeague titles with this roster? Share your predictions in the comments below.