John DeGrace

Kyle Ramos

Throughout the team’s 30 years in Sacramento, there are a select few who, while not always seen, have remained a constant in the Kings family.

SB Nation’s Blake Ellington recently profiled several longtime members of the organization to get an inside look at their careers at Sleep Train Arena.

John DeGrace’s journey began when the team first arrived, and he simply wanted to find a way to attend Sacramento’s 1985 home opener. He found an opening by earning a position with the organization. Fast-forward 30 years and DeGrace is still with the team, advancing from an entry-level role as an usher to becoming senior manger of facility maintenance.

“It gave me more than a career. It gave my family an opportunity. It gave me a purpose," DeGrace told SB Nation. "To learn about how the NBA puts on a show for the best fans in the league, to grow as a team leader."

Ellington goes on to share perspective from additional members of the organization who’ve been a part of the magic since the team’s move to Sacramento, including beloved Kings TV color analyst Jerry Reynolds.

The loyalty shown by veteran members of the staff is one of the characteristics that truly exemplifies a game that’s bigger than basketball.

John DeGrace

Finding Family as Kings Team Members