featured-image

Training Camp Day 1: ‘Ready to Work’

Five months removed from the team’s final game of the 2015-16 campaign and final game in the 28-year history of Sleep Train Arena, much has changed for the Kings.

New and old faces alike convened at the brand new, state-of-the-art downtown arena - Golden 1 Center, as Training Camp tipped-off on Tuesday. Former Kings Greats Brad Miller, Mike Bibby, Bobby Jackson, Peja Stojakovic and Vlade Divac were all in attendance for the proceedings to see the new facility as well as spend time with their friends and former teammates.

Running the current squad’s first official gathering at the new digs was Head Coach Dave Joerger, whose preparation for the day started long ago.

“You want to do what’s best for the group that you have,” said Joerger. “I anticipate us playing a lot more small ball this year. We’re giving guys a chance to pick things up with what we’re trying to do on the defensive end.”

For rookies, the NBA learning curve tends to be steep, but first round selection Skal Labissiere has been hard at work to stay ahead of the game – noticeably stronger than just two months ago at NBA Summer League.

“I came in here ready to work after Summer League,” said Labissiere. “I knew what I had to do – I was working with the strength and conditioning coach every day. I’m looking forward to tonight when we’ll have a second (practice).”

Meanwhile, for veterans like Omri Casspi, although much remained the same, the day’s drills also brought with them an unfamiliar, yet exciting addition. “I think the attention to detail here is something we haven’t seen.”

With a required non-contact session completed Tuesday afternoon, the Kings will continue Day 1 of Training Camp with another practice in the evening at Golden 1 Center’s Practice Facility.

Training Camp Notes:

  • DeMarcus Cousins stayed on the court for an hour after the first practice to work on pick-and-pop shooting.
  • Mike Bibby and Vlade Divac picked up right where they left off, often razzing former Sixth Man of the Year award winner Bobby Jackson after the practice.
  • Rudy Gay, Omri Casspi and Malachi Richardson spent much of the time following practice working on pull-up jumpers following screens.


Next Up