Ben Simmons (Image Credits: Imagn)
Recently, news broke that Ben Simmons is making a shocking move this offseason. That bombshell came as a surprise to basketball fans, even his haters. Simmons is only 29 and still in the middle of his prime athletic years.

Splitting time between the Brooklyn Nets and the Los Angeles Clippers last season, the three-time all-star has yet to recapture his old form and produce efficiently on the court. He has struggled with his shot after his unceremonious exit from Philadelphia in 2022. ESPN’s Brian Windhorst recently gave a reality check on Simmons’ value in recent years.

We may have undermined Ben Simmons’s seriousness about stepping away from the game. Bernie Lee, Simmons’ agent, reportedly cut ties with him due to the uncertainty of his client’s plans.

“Ben Simmons’ agent Bernie Lee has cut ties with Simmons and will no longer represent him,” according to Marc Stein, a well-known NBA correspondent.

“As Ben Simmons decides his next career steps, I’m told Bernie Lee has notified the NBPA that he has formally removed himself from the union’s ledger as Simmons’ agent,” Stein added on X.

This new development came as a head-scratcher because it’s not like Ben Simmons did not have any suitors this offseason. The Boston Celtics and the New York Knicks were reportedly interested in his services.

Ben Simmons’ Love For Basketball Has Been Questioned Before

Ben Simmons (Image Credits: Getty Images)

It’s hard to imagine that a player of Simmons’ caliber will pack up and forgo millions in the process. But this isn’t the first time that his love for the game has been questioned. During the 2016 draft process, one major red flag about him was the lack of willingness to put in additional effort.

Those concerns seem to have been quelled early in his career. He won Rookie of the Year in 2018 and has been named a three-time All-Star, all before the age of 25. However, Simmons has posted career-low numbers across all categories for the past three seasons.

All About the NCIS Spinoff Tony & Ziva , Including One Detail That Calls Back to the Early Tiva Days

What’s the Buzz About the New Tony & Ziva Spinoff?

If you’ve been part of the NCIS fandom for more than a hot minute, you already know that Tony DiNozzo and Ziva David—affectionately known as Tiva—were the heart and soul of the show for years. And now? They’re back with their own spinoff. Yep, it’s real, and it’s happening. Fans have waited over a decade for closure, and this spinoff promises not just that but so much more.

A Quick Refresher: Who Are Tony and Ziva?

Before we dive into the juicy spinoff details, let’s hit rewind for a sec. Tony DiNozzo (Michael Weatherly) was the charming, wise-cracking NCIS Special Agent. Ziva David (Cote de Pablo) was the badass Mossad operative turned NCIS agent. Their chemistry? Off the charts. For years, fans watched as the two danced around their feelings, forming one of TV’s most slow-burn, emotionally charged romances.

Why Did They Leave NCIS in the First Place?

Both characters exited the original show years ago. Ziva was presumed dead, and Tony left the agency to raise their daughter, Tali. It wasn’t until seasons later that Ziva returned—very much alive—and fans got a glimmer of hope for a proper reunion. But it never quite happened… until now.

The NCIS Spinoff: A Long-Awaited Love Letter to Tiva Fans

What’s the Title of the Spinoff?

The show’s working title is NCIS: Europe (subject to change), and it’s more than just a crime drama. It’s an emotional, globe-trotting journey that picks up with Tony and Ziva raising Tali while running a private security firm. Think: crime-solving meets co-parenting with some unresolved romantic tension on the side.

Who’s Behind the Series?

Michael Weatherly and Cote de Pablo are not just reprising their roles—they’re also executive producers. That means they’re hands-on with the storytelling. This isn’t just fan service—it’s fan respect.

Where and When Will the Show Air?

CBS Studios has confirmed that the spinoff will stream exclusively on Paramount+. As of now, filming is expected to begin later this year, with a release window likely in early-to-mid 2026. Yep, it’s still a bit of a wait, but judging by the buzz? Totally worth it.

What Makes This Spinoff Different from Other NCIS Series?

Unlike traditional NCIS shows that stick closely to U.S.-based military crimes, this spinoff stretches across Europe. Expect international espionage, fast-paced action, and intimate character moments. It’s a spy thriller and a family drama all rolled into one.

Ziva and Tony’s Relationship: Where Do They Stand?

The show picks up with the pair co-parenting Tali, but not necessarily as a couple. There’s love there—clearly—but also a ton of unresolved tension. Expect some fireworks, both emotional and literal.

One Heartwarming Throwback to Early Tiva Days

Now, let’s talk about that one subtle detail that’s got old-school fans absolutely freaking out: Tony still carries Ziva’s Star of David pendant. In one behind-the-scenes tease, Weatherly was spotted wearing it under his shirt. For longtime fans, this tiny symbol carries huge weight—it’s the same necklace Ziva wore during her early NCIS days, symbolizing faith, identity, and connection. The fact that Tony now wears it? Chills.

Character Evolution: Tiva Then vs. Now

 Ziva’s Transformation

Once the stone-cold assassin with a heart guarded by barbed wire, Ziva is now a mother, a businesswoman, and a protector. She still kicks ass, but with a new layer of vulnerability.

 Tony’s Growth

Tony has always been the joker, but being a dad and losing Ziva changed him. He’s more introspective, thoughtful, but still that same lovable rogue underneath.

Tali DiNozzo: More Than Just Their Daughter

Meet Tali

The spinoff finally gives Tali the screen time she deserves. Now a pre-teen, she’s witty, sharp, and already showing signs of being both her parents’ child. Expect moments of levity, heart, and a few “chip-off-the-old-block” lines that’ll make you smile.

New Characters, New Dynamics

The show will also introduce a new supporting cast:

A tech genius who’s way too into Tony’s movie references

A mysterious Mossad contact from Ziva’s past

And a rival security firm with secrets of its own

Easter Eggs and Callbacks Galore

Fans can expect more than just the pendant callback. Showrunners have hinted at throwbacks like:

An updated version of Tony’s movie lists

Old NCIS photos on Ziva’s desk

Mentions of Abby, McGee, and even Gibbs (sigh, we miss you, boss)

Will Other NCIS Cast Members Appear?

There’s buzz—but nothing confirmed—about possible cameos. Rumors swirl around McGee making an appearance, and fans are hoping for a surprise visit from Gibbs. If we know anything about NCIS, it’s to expect the unexpected.

Fan Reaction So Far

From Reddit threads to Twitter (okay, X), the fandom is on fire. Memes, fan art, rewatches of old Tiva scenes—this spinoff has reignited the NCIS flame in a big way. And honestly? It’s long overdue.

Why This Spinoff Matters

It’s more than just content for content’s sake. This show is about closure, growth, and legacy. It honors long-term fans while building something new. And most importantly—it brings Tiva back where they belong: together, complicated, and beautifully messy.

Conclusion: A New Chapter for Tiva, but the Same Heartbeat

After years of “what ifs” and “maybes,” we’re finally getting the story we deserve. The Tony & Ziva spinoff isn’t just a continuation; it’s a celebration. Whether you’ve been shipping Tiva since Season 3 or just jumped on the NCIS train, this show is poised to deliver action, heart, and a whole lot of feels. Buckle up—because it’s gonna be one hell of a ride.