The Sacramento Kings franchise has had some legendary players compete for their franchise, although they only have one NBA title in their legacy, which came in the 1950-51 season when they were known as the Rochester Royals. The Kings’ history started with the Rochester Royals before turning into the Cincinnati Royals, Kansas City-Omaha Kings, Kansas City Kings, and the Sacramento Kings.
With so many changes throughout their history and a host of Hall of Fame players competing for their franchise, here are the 10 greatest Sacramento Kings players, along with some honorable mentions.
1. Oscar Robertson
Years In Cincinnati: 10 (1961-1970)
Cincinnati: 29.3 PPG, 8.5 RPG, 10.3 APG
Career: 25.7 PPG, 7.5 RPG, 9.5 APG, 1.1 SPG, 0.1 BPG
Honors: 1963-64 MVP, 10x All-Star, 10x All-NBA Team Selection, 6x Assist Champion, 3x All-Star Game MVP, Rookie of the Year
Oscar Robertson, often hailed as one of the greatest basketball players of all time, is the greatest player in Sacramento Kings (Cincinnati Royals) franchise history. Although his time with the Kings was relatively short compared to his illustrious career, Robertson’s impact was profound. Known for his exceptional skill set and versatility, Robertson brought an unmatched excellence to the court. His tenure with the Kings spanned from 1961 to 1970, after getting taken No. 1 overall in the 1960 NBA Draft.
Robertson’s key achievements include leading the league in assists six times and being named an All-Star each year he played for the Royals. While Robertson’s time with the Kings didn’t result in a championship, his legacy as one of the greatest players in NBA history undoubtedly solidifies his place among the top players in Sacramento Kings history because he was the first player to average a triple-double in a single season (1962) and the only star to win MVP with the franchise.
2. Chris Webber
Years In Sacramento: 7 (1999-2005)
Sacramento: 23.5 PPG, 10.6 RPG, 4.8 APG, 1.5 SPG, 1.5 BPG
Career: 20.7 PPG, 9.8 RPG, 4.2 APG, 1.4 SPG, 1.4 BPG
Honors: 4x All-Star, 5x All-NBA Team Selection, 1988-89 Rebounds Champion
Chris Webber’s impact on the Sacramento Kings transcended statistics; he epitomized the franchise’s resurgence during his seven-year tenure. Arriving in Sacramento in 1999, Webber immediately revitalized the team with his dynamic playing style and leadership on and off the court. A versatile power forward, he possessed a unique blend of size, skill, and basketball IQ that made him a matchup nightmare for opponents. He was one of the first true point-forwards during his era.
Beyond the numbers, Webber’s leadership and court vision were instrumental in the Kings’ success during the early 2000s. His ability to distribute the ball effectively from the post elevated Sacramento’s offense to new heights, earning him five All-NBA Team selections and four All-Star appearances during his time with the Kings. Webber’s impact extended beyond individual accolades; he played a pivotal role in leading the Kings to multiple deep playoff runs, including a memorable Western Conference Finals appearance in 2002. Despite falling short of a championship, Webber brought great success to the Kings franchise.
3. Nate Archibald
Years In Cincinnati/Kansas City-Omaha/Kansas City: 6 (1971-1976)
Cincinnati/Kansas City-Omaha/Kansas City: 25.2 PPG, 2.8 RPG, 8.1 APG, 1.5 SPG, 0.1 BPG
Career: 18.8 PPG, 2.3 RPG, 7.4 APG, 1.1 SPG, 0.1 BPG
Honors: 3x All-Star, 4x All-NBA Team Selection, 1972-73 Scoring Champion, 1972-73 Assist Champion
Nate “Tiny” Archibald’s tenure with the Sacramento Kings, then known as the Cincinnati Royals, Kansas City-Omaha Kings, and later simply the Kansas City Kings, marked a significant period in the franchise’s history. Arriving in 1971 as a second-round pick, Archibald wasted no time establishing himself as one of the premier guards in the league. His combination of speed, agility, and court vision made him a force to be reckoned with on the court.
During his six seasons with the franchise, Archibald showcased his scoring prowess, averaging an impressive 25.2 points per game, along with 8.1 assists and 1.5 steals. His ability to both score and distribute the ball effectively earned him recognition as a three-time All-Star and four-time All-NBA Team selection. Archibald’s impact extended beyond individual accolades; he led the league in scoring during the 1972-73 season and also topped the charts in assists that same year, showcasing his versatility and all-around brilliance.
4. Mitch Richmond
Years In Sacramento: 7 (1992-1998)
Sacramento: 23.3 PPG, 3.7 RPG, 4.1 APG, 1.3 SPG, 0.3 BPG
Career: 21.0 PPG, 3.9 RPG, 3.5 APG, 1.2 SPG, 0.3 BPG
Honors: 6x All-Star, 5x All-NBA Team Selection, 1994-95 All-Star Game MVP
Mitch Richmond’s impact on the Sacramento Kings franchise during his seven-year tenure cannot be overstated. A talented scorer and one of the most underrated players from the 1990s, Richmond brought a scoring prowess and leadership that elevated the team’s play. A prolific shooting guard, he possessed a deadly combination of shooting ability, athleticism, and basketball IQ that made him one of the most feared scorers in the league.
His ability to score from anywhere on the court, coupled with his knack for making clutch plays, made him the focal point of Sacramento’s offense. Richmond’s impact extended beyond his scoring ability; his leadership both on and off the court helped shape the culture of the Kings during the 1990s. A player who ended up in the Hall of Fame, mainly due to his stint in Sacramento, Richmond was a six-time All-Star and a five-time All-NBA Team selection during his time with the Kings.
5. Jerry Lucas
Years In Cincinnati: 7 (1964-1970)
Cincinnati: 19.6 PPG, 19.1 RPG, 3.0 APG
Career: 17.0 PPG, 15.6 RPG, 3.3 APG, 0.4 SPG, 0.3 BPG
Honors: 6x All-Star, 5x All-NBA Team Selection, 1964-65 All-Star Game MVP, 1963-64 Rookie of the Year, 1963-64 All-Rookie Team Selection
Jerry Lucas’s impact on the Sacramento Kings, during their time as the Cincinnati Royals, was nothing short of extraordinary. One of the best power forwards of all time, Lucas immediately made his presence felt with his dominant play in the paint. A ferocious rebounder and skilled scorer, Lucas played a pivotal role in shaping the success of the franchise during his seven-year tenure.
Statistically, Lucas’s numbers were staggering, averaging 19.6 points and an astonishing 19.1 rebounds per game during his time with the Royals. His prowess on the boards earned him the reputation as one of the most dominant rebounders in the history of the league. Lucas’ best season came during 1965-66 when he averaged 21.5 points and 21.1 rebounds per game and the star player eventually entered the Hall of Fame due to his exploits during the mid and late 1960s.
6. Peja Stojakovic
Years In Sacramento: 8 (1999-2006)
Sacramento: 18.3 PPG, 5.0 RPG, 2.0 APG, 1.0 SPG, 0.1 BPG
Career: 17.0 PPG, 4.7 RPG, 1.8 APG, 0.9 SPG, 0.1 BPG
Honors: 3x All-Star, 2003-04 All-NBA Team Selection
One of the best shooters ever with a career 40.1% 3PT FG, Peja Stojakovic’s tenure with the Sacramento Kings from 1999 to 2006 marked a golden era for the franchise. Arriving in Sacramento in 1998, Stojakovic quickly became a fan favorite with his lethal outside shooting and versatility on the court. A sharp-shooting small forward, he possessed a smooth stroke and a knack for scoring from anywhere on the floor.
During his eight seasons with the Kings, Stojakovic averaged 18.3 points and 5.0 rebounds per game, showcasing his ability to impact the game both as a scorer and a rebounder. His proficiency from beyond the arc made him one of the most feared shooters in the league, stretching defenses and opening up scoring opportunities for his teammates. His leadership on and off the court helped guide the team to multiple deep playoff runs, including a memorable Western Conference Finals appearance in 2002 alongside Chris Webber.
7. Arnie Risen
Years In Rochester: 7 (1950-1955)
Rochester: 13.3 PPG, 11.2 RPG, 1.9 APG
Career: 11.5 PPG, 9.7 RPG, 1.7 APG
Honors: 1950-51 NBA Champion, 4x All-Star
Arnie Risen’s impact on the Rochester Royals franchise during his seven-year tenure was significant, particularly during the early years of the NBA when the franchise won its first and only NBA title. Arriving in Rochester in 1950, Risen played a pivotal role in the team’s success, helping them secure the NBA Championship in the 1950-1951 season. A dominant force in the paint, Risen’s scoring and rebounding prowess were instrumental in the Royals’ championship run and subsequent success.
During his time with the Royals, Risen averaged 13.3 points and 11.2 rebounds per game, showcasing his ability to dominate the game on both ends of the floor. His tenacity on the boards and scoring touch in the paint made him a formidable presence in the league, and he also ended up in the Hall of Fame for guiding the Royals to the 1951 NBA title against the New York Knicks.
8. Vlade Divac
Years In Sacramento: 6 (1999-2004)
Sacramento: 11.4 PPG, 7.8 RPG, 3.7 APG, 1.0 SPG, 1.2 BPG
Career: 11.8 PPG, 8.2 RPG, 3.1 APG, 1.1 SPG, 1.4 BPG
Honors: 2000-01 All-Star
Arriving in Sacramento in 1998 following stints with the Los Angeles Lakers and Charlotte Hornets, Vlade Divac brought with him a wealth of experience and skill that would prove invaluable to the team’s success. A versatile center known for his exceptional passing ability and basketball IQ, Divac quickly became a fan favorite in Sacramento.
During his six seasons with the Kings, Divac’s statistical contributions were solid, averaging 11.4 points, 7.8 rebounds, and 3.7 assists per game. However, his impact on the court extended far beyond the box score. Divac’s unselfish play and willingness to facilitate offense from the center position revolutionized the way the game was played, earning him the admiration of teammates and fans alike. Divac was also the starting center for the 2002 Kings team that took the Lakers to seven games in the Western Conference Finals.
9. DeMarcus Cousins
Years In Sacramento: 7 (2011-2017)
Sacramento: 21.1 PPG, 10.8 RPG, 3.0 APG, 1.4 SPG, 1.2 BPG
Career: 19.6 PPG, 10.2 RPG, 3.0 APG, 1.3 SPG, 1.1 BPG
Honors: 3x All-Star, 2x All-NBA Team Selection, 2010-11 All-Rookie Team Selection
Arriving in Sacramento as the No. 5 overall pick in the 2010 NBA Draft, powerful center DeMarcus Cousins brought with him a rare combination of size, skill, and intensity that made him one of the most dominant big men in the league. During his time with the Kings, Cousins put up impressive numbers, averaging 21.1 points, 10.8 rebounds, 3.0 assists, 1.4 steals, and 1.2 blocks per game. His ability to score in the post, crash the boards, and facilitate offense from the center position made him a unique talent and a matchup nightmare for opposing teams.
Cousins’ accolades reflect his impact on the court. He was selected to the All-Star team three times and earned All-NBA Team honors twice during his tenure with the Kings. Additionally, he was named to the All-Rookie Team in the 2010-2011 season, further solidifying his status as one of the premier talents in the league. Despite his individual success, Cousins’ time in Sacramento was also marked by frustration and disappointment, as the team struggled to find consistent success in the win column which does hurt his ranking.
10. Jack Twyman
Years In Sacramento: 11 (1956-1966)
Sacramento: 19.2 PPG, 6.6 RPG, 2.3 APG
Career: 19.2 PPG, 6.6 RPG, 2.3 APG
Honors: 6x All-Star, 2x All-NBA Team Selection
Jack Twyman’s impact on the Sacramento Kings, during their time as the Cincinnati Royals, was profound and enduring. Spending 11 seasons with the franchise from 1956 to 1966, Twyman left an indelible mark as one of the premier players of his era. A versatile forward known for his scoring prowess and tenacity on the court, Twyman played a pivotal role in shaping the success of the Royals during the late 1950s and early 1960s.
Twyman’s contributions to the Royals were further recognized with six All-Star selections and two All-NBA Team selections during his tenure. His impact extended beyond individual accolades; his leadership both on and off the court helped guide the Royals to six playoff appearances and cemented his legacy as one of the greatest players in franchise history.
Honorable Mentions
Otis Birdsong
Years In Kansas City: 4 (1978-1981)
Kansas City: 21.2 PPG, 3.6 RPG, 2.9 APG, 1.4 SPG, 0.2 BPG
Career: 18.0 PPG, 3.0 RPG, 3.2 APG, 1.2 SPG, 0.2 BPG
Honors: 3x All-Star, 1980-81 All-NBA Team Selection
Otis Birdsong’s impact on the Kansas City Kings during his four-year tenure from 1978 to 1981 was significant, solidifying him as one of the premier guards of his era. Arriving in Kansas City in 1978, Birdsong wasted no time showcasing his scoring prowess and leadership on the court. A dynamic shooting guard, he possessed a smooth shooting stroke and an ability to create scoring opportunities for himself and his teammates.
During his time with the Kings, Birdsong averaged an impressive 21.2 points, 3.6 rebounds, 2.9 assists, and 1.4 steals per game, highlighting his ability to impact the game in multiple facets. His scoring ability, coupled with his defensive tenacity, made him a focal point of the Kings’ offense and defense.
De’Aaron Fox
Years In Sacramento: 7 (2018-2024)
Sacramento: 21.0 PPG, 3.7 RPG, 6.1 APG, 1.4 SPG, 0.4 BPG
Career: 21.0 PPG, 3.7 RPG, 6.1 APG, 1.4 SPG, 0.4 BPG
Honors: 2022-23 All-Star, 2022-23 All-NBA Team Selection
De’Aaron Fox’s impact on the Sacramento Kings during his seven-year tenure from 2018 to 2024 has been nothing short of transformative. Emerging as one of the league’s premier point guards, Fox has showcased his electrifying speed, dynamic scoring ability, and playmaking prowess, making him a cornerstone of the Kings’ roster.
Fox’s contributions to the Kings were further highlighted by his individual accolades. In the 2022-23 season, he earned his first All-Star selection and was named to the All-NBA Team, solidifying his status as one of the league’s premier point guards. Additionally, Fox played a pivotal role in guiding the Kings to the playoffs for the first time in 11 years in 2023, showcasing his leadership and ability to elevate his game in crucial moments. The 2023 Clutch Player of the Year has immensely improved as a player, and he will look to enter the top 10 of this ranking by the time his career with the Kings is over.
Domantas Sabonis
Years In Sacramento: 3 (2022-2024)
Sacramento: 19.4 PPG, 12.7 RPG, 7.6 APG, 0.8 SPG, 0.5 BPG
Career: 15.6 PPG, 10.1 RPG, 4.6 APG, 0.8 SPG, 0.5 BPG
Honors: 2022-23 All-Star, 2022-23 All-NBA Team Selection, 2022-23 Rebounds Champion
Domantas Sabonis’s brief but impactful tenure with the Sacramento Kings from 2022 to 2024 showcased his versatility and prowess as one of the league’s premier big men. Arriving in Sacramento with high expectations following two All-Star appearances with the Indiana Pacers, Sabonis wasted no time making his presence felt on the court. A skilled forward/center with exceptional passing ability and rebounding prowess, he quickly became a focal point of the Kings’ offense and defense.
During his three seasons with the Kings, Sabonis averaged an impressive 19.4 points, 12.7 rebounds, and 7.6 assists per game, showcasing his ability to impact the game in multiple facets. His scoring ability in the post, combined with his vision and passing skills, made him a dynamic playmaker and a nightmare matchup for opposing teams. Sabonis has also formed a star duo alongside De’Aaron Fox which helped the Kings make the playoffs in 2023 with more to come from them.
Mike Bibby
Years In Sacramento: 7 (2002-2008)
Sacramento: 17.6 PPG, 3.2 RPG, 5.4 APG, 1.2 SPG, 0.2 BPG
Career: 14.7 PPG, 3.1 RPG, 5.5 APG, 1.2 SPG, 0.1 BPG
Honors: 1998-99 All-Rookie Team Selection
Acquired via trade in 2001 by the Kings, Mike Bibby quickly became the orchestrator of the Kings’ high-octane offense, earning a reputation as one of the league’s premier point guards. During his time in Sacramento, Bibby averaged 17.6 points, 3.2 rebounds, and 5.4 assists per game. His scoring ability, combined with his floor leadership and playmaking skills, made him a vital cog in the Kings’ success during the early 2000s.
While his individual accolades may not reflect the full extent of his impact, Bibby’s contributions to the Kings were invaluable. His leadership on and off the court helped guide the team to multiple deep playoff runs, including a memorable Western Conference Finals appearance in 2002 as the guard feeding Chris Webber and Vlade Divac down low. Armed with incredible handles, shooting ability, and passing skills, Bibby has to be one of the most underrated guards of the 2000s.
Thank you for being a valued reader of Fadeaway World. If you liked this article, please consider following us on Google News. We really appreciate your support.
