Well, Kings fans, while the NFL is already in preseason mode and only weeks away from regular season games, the NBA is not far behind.
In less than 60 days your own Sacramento Kings will once again be gracing the hardwood, and many are asking what can they expect?
Ask any 10 people and you’ll get 10 different answers.
That would not be true of many organizations that have developed expectations based on recent successes and possibly on additions that were made to the team during the off season.
The Sacramento Kings made the post season just 4 years ago and appeared to be on a roll. So, what happened that brought them to a paltry 22 wins last year?
Injuries certainly played a critical role, but it is much more than that.
I took a look at the most storied franchise in the NBA with a total of 18 championship rings.
The Boston Celtics were once almost invincible, putting together 8 straight championships, and sending a message that you may compete with us, but don’t expect to win.
What made the Celtics such a dynasty? One word describes how Boston got there. Culture.
The Celtics developed a culture that didn’t just spell team, it defined it.
Led by legendary Red Auerbach, the Celtics coach developed a team culture that many have tried to emulate but few have been successful. Perhaps the San Antonio Spurs may break into the conversation, as Gregg Popovich led the Spurs to 5 championships spanning a 29-year run.
Gregg Popovich simply had a modality that much like Red Auerbach, not only grasped the attention of his team, but transformed it.
So, what you ask, is the culture of the Sacramento Kings?
If I had that answer or even a good guess, I would certainly venture it.
What I can tell you is that denigrating players and constantly discussing their lack of ability as it relates to defense, or some other basketball related issue, is not something that will ever build a lasting relationship and is conducive to anything related to culture.
The Sacramento franchise while extolling their past two drafts, have become cataleptic in their approach to anything resembling a culture.
Whether the national media can see it or not, the Kings have an abundance of talent on the current team, but a culture is badly needed. Something that isn’t just lip service but shows up and supports the players in a way that builds confidence and a trust.
Domantas Sabonis has bought into what the Sacramento Kings have preached every season he’s been here, and has been the epitome of a leader literally from the day he arrived.
Domantas had to overcome the many fans that were crushed by the loss of Tyrese Haliburton, and all he did was cover his ears and lead the entire league in rebounding 3 years in a row.
Imagine breaking a thumb and playing through the pain to lead the league in rebounding and double-doubles.
Not lost in his stellar play has been the attitude of a true leader. Always the first player to help his teammate to his feet, a constant source of encouragement, Sabonis has been the poster boy for what an NBA teammate should look like.
But Sabonis isn’t the only player to be shopped for a trade and criticized for his perceived lack of defense.
Zack Lavine has had to endure constant dialogue about the over inflated salary he is receiving and how he is keeping the Kings from moving forward because of his price tag and lack of defensive skill.
After these two have been trashed will no restraint, let’s encourage them to be team leaders and approach the upcoming season will renewed enthusiasm.
Earth to the Kings. This is not how team culture is taught and developed.
Both Sabonis and Lavine have been former NBA all-stars, and contrary to popular opinion they both hit the hardwood with the same acumen that made them all-stars.
Let’s start but extolling the virtues and building a culture that the glass is half full and not the opposite.
I know leaders when I see them, and Domantas Sabonis and Zach Lavine fit the description to a tee.
I’m showing up to see them play and I hope you will too!
All the best! V.G. Harris
Vince Harris is an area resident and the author of Kings Corner, in which he contributes to Folsom Times, giving readers a look at the happenings on the court and behind the scenes of the Sacramento Kings.
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