SACRAMENTO, Calif. – The Sacramento Kings announced today that Kaiser Permanente will be the team's new medical provider beginning with the 2013-14 NBA season. Under this agreement, Kaiser Permanente sports medicine physicians, orthopedic surgeons, physical therapists, nutritionists, and health fitness specialists will provide Kings players with high-quality care throughout the season.
Kaiser Permanente has been a health care provider for employees of the Kings organization for 20 years, and this partnership expands the long-term relationship with the team by actively supporting the total health needs of Kings players.
"We are thrilled to have Kaiser Permanente as an even bigger part of our team," said Sacramento Kings President and Chief Operating Officer Chris Granger. "They have been one of our great partners with our employees, and now they will begin working with our players. We look forward to continuing to grow this relationship."
"With 82 regular season games and countless practices and workouts, the physical demands on the players are tremendous," said Dr. Jason Brayley, Kaiser Permanente's chief of Sports Medicine. "We look forward to providing the players with top-notch care so they can be at their best—both on and off the court."
As the greater Sacramento region's leading health care provider and a sponsorship partner for the season, Kaiser Permanente will also work closely with the Kings organization on a wide range of community health initiatives. This includes the Get Fit Timeout program in which Kings players, coaches, and local celebrities will join Kaiser Permanente clinicians to show local youth the importance of healthy eating and active living.
Additionally, Kaiser Permanente will sponsor the Kings annual Rhythm 'N Rims event in downtown Sacramento on Oct. 13, benefiting 15 regional nonprofits. Kaiser Permanente will also work with the Kings organization to expand healthy food options available for fans at Sleep Train Arena, the team's home venue.
"We are excited about our expanded partnership with the Kings, and look forward to working closely with them to help improve the health and well-being of the communities we serve," said Ed Glavis, Kaiser Permanente senior vice president and area manager.