The Best Sacramento Kings of All Time
Who are the best Sacramento Kings of all time? The Sacramento Kings have moved cities more than any other team in NBA history. Joining the NBA in 1949 as the Rochester Royals, the team experienced success. The Royals won its only championship, defeating the New York Knicks in 1951. These early Rochester teams featured nine future Pro Basketball Hall of Famers like Arnie Risen, Maurice Stokes and Jack Twyman. In 1957, the team left Rochester for Cincinnati.
In Cincinnati, Oscar Robertson established himself as one of the best players in basketball history. The team was a constant contender with Robertson averaging a triple double in some season and winning the MVP Award and was a nine-time All Star. But management broke up those great teams and the best players in team history ended up being traded away, as was Robertson.
After moving to Kansas City and changing its name to the Kings, the team moved to Sacramento in 1985. It took the Kings a while, but at the end of the 1990s, the Kings finally had its most prosperous period since its early days. Franchise icons like Chris Webber, Mike Bibby, Peja Stojakovic and Vlade Divac carried Sacramento as far as Game 7 of the Western Conference Finals in 2002. The Kings lost to the Lakers in that controversial series, but the players on that team remain some of the most beloved in Kings history.
This is a list of the best Sacramento Kings of all time. Vote or rerank this list according to who you think should be considered the best player in Royals/Kings history.
- 1Point guard
- Birthplace: Tennessee, USA, Charlotte
An extraordinary player, Oscar Robertson spent his final NBA years with the Kings in their Kansas City-Omaha era, proving that age didn't slow him down and solidifying his place as one of the best Kings of all time. Nicknamed "Big O", Robertson was a triple-double machine, showcasing his superb ball-handling skills and unmatched court vision while with the Kings. A true game-changer, his impact on the sport is still felt today as he paved the way for versatile guards, demonstrating how a blend of scoring, passing, and rebounding could lead to team success.
- 2Power forward, Center
- Birthplace: Detroit, Michigan, USA
As the centerpiece of the early 2000s Sacramento Kings, Chris Webber dazzled fans with his high basketball IQ, insane passing ability, and his smooth post game, making him a truly versatile power forward. His arrival to the team brought a new level of excitement and optimism, as the Kings transformed into a perennial playoff contender with Webber leading the charge. In addition to his on-court skills, Webber brought a swagger and charisma that endeared him to fans and made him an unforgettable figure in Kings history.
- 3Small forward
- Birthplace: Slavonska Požega, SR Croatia, SFR Yugoslavia
Sharp-shooting Peja Stojaković made a name for himself as one of the best shooters in NBA history during his time with the Sacramento Kings. His picture-perfect shooting form, combined with his ability to stretch the floor, made Peja a key component of the Kings' successful early 2000s teams. Stojaković's international appeal and flair also helped bring the team global recognition, paving the way for more European players to have an impact in the NBA.
- 4Shooting guard
- Birthplace: Fort Lauderdale, Florida, USA
Rock Mitch Richmond’s tenure with the Kings saw him become one of the most feared shooting guards in the league because of his incredible scoring prowess and his steely demeanor on the court. His lightning-quick first step, his ability to finish at the rim, and his sweet shooting stroke were a nightmare for opposing defenses. Not just an offensive juggernaut, Richmond was also a tenacious defender, earning a reputation as a complete, all-around player that helped solidify the Kings' presence in the NBA.
- 5Point guard
- Birthplace: Belle, West Virginia
Jason "White Chocolate" Williams electrified Sacramento with his exciting, flashy style of play during his tenure with the Kings. His uncanny ability to make no-look passes and ankle-breaking crossovers left defenders bewildered and fans in awe. Williams' unpredictable and thrilling game style turned him into a fan favorite, making him one of the most memorable Kings in franchise history.
- 6Point guard
- Birthplace: Cherry Hill, New Jersey, USA
Mike Bibby's clutch performances and steady floor generalship during his time with the Kings earned him his reputation as a big-shot maker. His determination and grit made Bibby the engine that drove the Kings' playoff success in the early 2000s. As the team's point guard and vocal leader, Bibby provided a calming presence that kept Sacramento's high-octane offense humming at its full potential.
