Ben Simmons, Making Free Throws?

Ben Simmons Rediscovers Confidence at the Free-Throw Line in December 2025

In a surprising and commendable turnaround, Ben Simmons has showcased significant improvement at the free-throw line during December 2025. Known for his struggles at the stripe throughout his career, Simmons has shot an impressive 76.9% this month, making 12 of 15 attempts . This marks a notable leap in efficiency for the Brooklyn Nets star, who has often faced criticism for his free-throw shooting woes.

A Highlight Against Utah One of the standout moments of Simmons’ December resurgence came during a game against the Utah Jazz. In a tightly contested matchup, Simmons stepped up under pressure and converted 5 of 6 free throws , a stellar 83% performance. His calm demeanor at the line contributed crucial points, proving pivotal in keeping the Nets competitive during the game.

Career Context Simmons has long been a dominant presence in other aspects of the game, excelling as a playmaker, defender, and rebounder. However, his career free-throw percentage—hovering around 60% before this season—has often been a glaring weakness. Opponents have exploited this through the "Hack-a-Ben" strategy, targeting his confidence at the stripe in high-stakes moments.

This December, however, Simmons appears to be rewriting the narrative. His consistent form at the line is not only boosting his individual confidence but also providing the Nets with a more reliable scoring option during close games.

Impact on the Nets The Brooklyn Nets, who rely on Simmons for his versatility and defensive prowess, have greatly benefited from his newfound reliability at the free-throw line. Simmons’ improvement alleviates pressure on his teammates, allowing the team to keep him on the floor during critical moments without fearing intentional fouling.

What Changed? While Simmons and the Nets have not revealed any significant changes to his routine, subtle adjustments in mechanics and mental approach seem to be paying off. His shooting stroke looks smoother, and his body language at the line exudes newfound confidence.

Looking Ahead If Simmons can maintain—or even improve—his current free-throw performance, it could have a transformative effect on his career and the Nets' postseason aspirations. The ability to convert from the stripe consistently would round out his skill set, making him an even more formidable all-around player.

As Simmons continues to silence critics with his steady improvement, December 2025 might be remembered as the month he began redefining his game and erasing doubts about his free-throw capabilities. For now, the focus remains on sustaining this momentum and continuing to build upon his success.