Allison Ward

It was an empowering day for the young girls in attendance of the Jr. Kings All-Girls Clinic, with numerous inspiring women contributing to the camp’s major success. 

Not one, but two WNBA stars – Danielle Viglione and former Sacramento Monarch Monique Ambers – came out to the clinic to help our young athletes learn some new skills and empower the girls on the court.

Sacramento Kings Assistant Head Coach Bryan Gates was in attendance, as he brought his daughter to participate in the clinic, as well as assist in coaching the others.

The girls gave it their all on the court, and after three hours of techniques and drills there was a well-deserved pizza delivery for all the talented young athletes to enjoy before the STEM Camp begun.

Not only were the girls empowered through basketball, the next generation was also encouraged to be proactive in exploring opportunities in science, technology, engineering, and math.

The STEM Camp was led by Micron Gives, and in the matter of an hour the girls of the STEM Camp had built their own robots with just a few materials.

It was an experience that the girls of the Jr. Kings can reflect on for days to come, and know that they have the ability to make an impact with anything they set their minds to.

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Jr. Kings All Girls Clinic X STEM Camp Recap

“I see it,” Fox said. “I get tagged in it [on social media] a lot. 

In an article with YAHOO Sports, Fox played coy when discussing the attention he has received towards his sneaker collection.

“I’m just in a position where I can get a lot of shoes,” Swipa stated, hesitant in claiming himself as a true sneakerhead. 

As we’ve seen on the hardwood, Fox tends to stick to the Kobe 9 model; a style that we’ve seen him play in from high school to Kentucky, and now in the NBA.

Players in the Association have the means to access almost any shoe they want if they look hard enough, and some are even willing to spend a pretty penny.

Fortunately, the League announced this past summer that they would be relaxing the restrictions on what kicks the players could wear during games, allowing them to get even more creative with their court style.

There has even been some talk circulating around the League around the claim of a true "sneaker king,” but Sactown’s sophomore guard isn’t too concerned on winning that title.

“There’s only a select few that they put on a pedestal,” Swipa explained. “People are always waiting to see what we’re going to wear next.”

Kings fans will get to see more of the creativity behind Fox and the rest of the squad’s sneaker style as they return to action on Tuesday night against the Brooklyn Nets.

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De’Aaron Dubbed as One of the NBA’s Sneaker Kings

Even though the Sacramento Kings currently sit outside of the final playoff spot, Kings player development coach Larry Lewis doesn’t discount Sactown’s performance or effort.

"This season has already been a phenomenal season for us," Lewis said in an interview with Business Insider. "Whether we make the playoffs or not, we have overachieved this season. We've gone over and beyond what anyone expected of us as far as outside of our coaching staff.”

In some ways, the squad might credit their improvement this season to the grueling preseason training camp the completed last fall.

"They ran the s--- out of us," Willie Cauley-Stein told BI.

And just with a mention of "7-by-8", you can feel the unease within the Squad’s expressions.

"They felt it," said Lewis, with a smile. "It was definitely a test."

The "7-by-8" drill -  a.k.a. seven sprints, baseline-to-baseline, eight separate times - was one that most of the team despised, while some chose to welcome the challenge.

"Guys hate running," third-year guard Buddy Hield told reporters. "I don't care what you say. No basketball player likes running."

But the rook, Marvin Bagley III says otherwise.

"I like running," MBIII told Business Insider. "So, when we did that it was kinda cool, getting in shape and competing with everybody. Just trying to be the first guy in all the sprints, making it fun. Just turning my mind, changing it from making it a bad thing to thinking of it in a positive way, just going out and getting better. So, it was a good experience.”

But it was all a part of Coach Dave Joerger’s plan. "This is how we want to play," Joerger told BI in training camp. "This is how hard we want to play. We want to be a greatly conditioned team, and we want to play fast."

"We figured if we could get in shape before all the other teams get in shape, we could steal games," No. 00 said. "And that's what we did! It worked.”

Sactown currently leads the league in pace, at 104.47 possessions per game – a number that is slower than their record 107.06, but still faster than any other team in the NBA in the last 23 years.

“It’s not a surprise to us as a staff and as a team, but I think what newspaper articles were saying… nobody predicted this" Lewis stated.

The team is set on continuing their playoff push and gearing up for another long summer of sprints, transition skills and scrimmages before heading into next season.

“Just go. Just push it. Good things happen when you do."

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How A Brutal Training Camp Set the Tone for the Kings Season

It might have been MBIII’s birthday on Thursday, but the real celebration was seeing the young Kings forward suited up on the hardwood to face the Celtics.

No. 35 sat out the last two weeks with a sprained knee that occurred during final moments of the third quarter against the Milwaukee Bucks.

“I thought he fought and he ran the floor, he rebounded and [we were] just trying to find a rhythm for him there,” coach Dave Joerger told reporters following the Kings' 126-120 loss in Boston.

With just under five minutes remaining in the first quarter, the rookie out of Duke made a significant impact on the scoreboard.

Before the first quarter buzzer sounded, Bagley had buried four free throws and sunk a 3-pointer from the baseline.

No longer a teen, the impressive young big man notched 14 points and six rebounds in his 19 minutes on the court. Providing energy and effort all over the floor.

“He came out really aggressive, played really well in the first quarter,” said De’Aaron Fox. “He’s just getting his wind back.”

"I look forward to seeing him again tomorrow night and going forward," continued coach Joerger.

That opportunity comes soon, as the squad finishes the road trip with a matchup against the Philadelphia 76ers.

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A Royal Birthday for the Rook

With the playoff chase in full swing, each game for Sactown becomes more pivotal.

Harry Giles, who has battled injuries and rehabilitation in recent years, is healthy and making his presence known at the most opportune time for the squad.

“Motivation. It just keeps you going, you know?” No. 20 admitted.

Over his last three contests, Giles is averaging 16.6 points and 6.6 rebounds on 66 percent shooting in just under 20 minutes.

“I’ve just been figuring out how to play, and it’s taken time,” the Duke product said. “I couldn’t go out there and just have it all figured out, so it’s taken me time to get used to the contact, the style we play in and finding a happy medium with the way I play with them.” 

After the injury to Marvin Bagley III, Giles has played additional minutes and taken full advantage of his time on the floor.

“I’m on a new level, probably a point that I’ve never been at before” Giles states.

“It’s incredible to have the whole organization behind me,” Gizzle continued, “I’m starting to identify myself and find myself. I’m taking my time, but keep on pushing myself to see what I can do.”

The Kings continue their postseason hunt Wednesday, with the Boston Celtics visiting Golden 1 Center.

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Giles: 'I’m Starting to Identify Myself'

What is your role with the Sacramento Kings and how long have you been with the team?

“I am the Senior Director of Human Resources and I have been with the Sacramento Kings for 19 seasons.”

How would you describe the experience of coming out to your family, friends and teammates?

“After my high school graduation, I enlisted in the US Air Force and was stationed several states away from my family. I would visit 2-3 times a year and periodically would bring my partner with me.

I was raised in a conservative family, so coming out to my family in the early 80’s was not a conversation I was eager to have. The conversation started with my mother and has continued with the rest of my family over the years.

While I was enlisted in the Air Force (20 years) coming out to teammates was not an option since being a homosexual in military service was banned. Many of my friends and co-workers ‘knew’ but there was no ‘coming out’ moment.”

How has your personal experience helped you in your profession?

“My profession is in Human Resources so naturally I work with our employees on personal matters. I feel that I am a good listener and my life experiences have made me a more compassionate and understanding person.”

What challenges as an LGBTQ member have you faced working in the sports industry?

“None, I am happy to say! After 20 years hiding my identity in the military it felt as if a huge weight was lifted from my shoulders when I joined the Kings organization.”

How do you believe the LGBTQ conversation has evolved in sports and in business?

“The LGBTQ conversation has been changing over the years, as public perception changes the conversation changes.

20 years ago, the conversation revolved around Gay, Lesbian and Bi-Sexual issues, public displays of affection, the AIDS epidemic, etc. Today, the conversation has moved toward gender transition, gender expression, gender identity, and state and federal laws protecting the LGBTQ community rights.

We have come a long way in the last 20 years, but still have a long way to go as well.”

How do you think companies can be more inclusive of their LGBTQ team members?

“If a company respects its employees, values diversity and fosters an open, inclusive culture all employees will thrive including LGBTQ team members.

We provide Everyday Inclusion and Respect in the Workplace training to our employees. The trainings encourage discussion regarding LGBTQ community issues and how we as an organization can be an ambassador of change in our community.”

How can fellow team members help advance awareness and equity for their LGBTQ teammates?

“Get involved! The Sacramento Kings organization provides opportunities for its team members to get involved with the LGBTQ community through Equality Night, Sacramento Pride Festival, Vision of Equality Luncheon, etc.”

What advice would you share with members of the LGBTQ community who are looking to get into the sports industry?

“Members of the LGBTQ community are just like anyone else looking to get into the sports industry. Obtain the education and experience required for the position you want as a career, pursue opportunities as they present themselves and then do everything possible to grow in your chosen profession.

This is an industry that is difficult to break into, especially at the pro level. I would recommend that you network a lot. Network to get the know the industry, not just to ask for a job.”

What resources would you recommend for fellow LGBTQ members in the sports business?

“Every community is different, but get involved with your local LGBT Community organization and surround yourself with positive, friendly co-workers or find a mentor in your organization to help you grow professionally.”

What does it mean to you that the Sacramento Kings organization hosts and participates in causes that strive to bring greater awareness and equity to the LGBTQ community?

“I am very proud to be a part of the Sacramento Kings organization. The Sacramento Kings dedication to the Sacramento community is one of the main reasons I have been with the organization for the past 19 years.”

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Equality Night Spotlight: Nancy Mahoney

“I moved across the country from Connecticut six years ago to be part of one of the best leadership teams in sports. I’m currently the VP of Group, Premium Hospitality &amp; Event Sales. I oversee the strategy for Kings and Golden 1 Center group sales, as well as the arena’s nearly 100 premium suites, lofts and balcony boxes. I also had the opportunity to take the lead on building a new team to facilitate the use of the arena for special events.”

“I was afraid of how those closest to me would react, and am fortunate to have had a great experience coming out. I came out in my senior year of high school and the most common response I got was, ‘Yeah duh, if you didn’t tell us soon, we were going to tell YOU.’  I guess that’s not surprising for a tom-boy with a bowl cut, that once wore a tux and bow tie to a wedding as a kid.

For me, it was hardest to come out to those I was the closest with.  My twin sister is my best friend, we have the stereotypical twin bond but for some reason she was one of the last people I told. In the end, she was, and is still, the most supportive of me and my coming out didn’t affect our bond at all.

That said, I feel like I still come out almost every day and at times I have that little thought in the back of my head – ‘What if they don’t accept me?’”

“Being a lesbian, female in a very male dominated sports industry, has made me resilient, progressive, and a dynamic leader. I oversee one of the most diverse staffs in professional sports and entertainment, and have cultivated a culture of growth, family and collaboration. 

My experience has helped shape me into a leader that encourages diverse thought and challenges the status quo.”

“I’m thankful and lucky to say, no experience sticks out to me.  I’ve been intentional in surrounding myself with leaders and peers that support me.  I will admit however, that I am conscious of my interactions in the workplace as a gay female, and recognize not everyone is as fortunate as I have been to be in such an accepting work environment.”

“I think companies can start Employee Resource Groups like the Kings have.  In addition to launching the Career Advancement Program, I serve as a member of the Diversity Council, and just recently launched our Women in Sports Network group. These groups can engage, retain employees, and help be a tool for awareness and change.”

“Be aware and emotionally intelligent.  Do what you can to be inclusive, make everyone feel welcome, and help educate others to become aware if they are doing anything otherwise. Be supportive of pride events, or walk side by side with them and other members of the Kings for the pride parade. 

Don’t tell them you accept them, show them in your actions.”

“Don’t make excuses, you can do it. Surround yourself with people who will support you, challenge you, and grow you – just like my boss, Phil Horn.  Own who you are and be authentic. So many jobs these days are about who you know. Don’t be afraid to use your networking skills in your own community; it could turn into a job!”

“Develop a strong network within your field. Find great mentors, develop meaningful relationships, and don’t forget to pay it forward.”

“It means everything to me. I’ve been brought to tears of joy while seeing the Kings wave a giant rainbow flag and when my peers walked by my side at the annual Sacramento Pride parade.  I’m proud to say the Kings have hosted an Equality Night for a number of consecutive years.

I’m proud to be an out and successful member of the LGBTQ+ community and to also be part of one of the best Executive teams in professional sports and entertainment.  I’m proud to bring my girlfriend to work functions and feel welcome! 

I’m proud to feel like I can be an example for those in the LGBTQ+ community, it does get better.”

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Equality Night Spotlight: Lisa Feigenbaum

As All-Star Weekend is undoubtedly busy with on-court festivities, it's the off-court events that garner a lot of the fun.

This was especially true when Bogdan Bogdanovic and Buddy Hield stopped by to play some Nintendo Switch on Twitch, hosted by Jordan Kent of Nintendo of America.

Buddy was first introduced in the second segment of the livestream, to test his skills in the new version of Super Smash Mario Bros for the new Nintendo Switch.

When asked what he thought of the new gadget, No.24 responded “I just like the way you can travel with it, I pick it up when we’re on the road and I can play against multiple players with my teammates. And when I want to play on the big screen, I’ll hook it up to my TV so it’s fun.”

JC Rodriguez from Nintendo of America guided Buddy to the new features of the game such as how to hit his opponent or gain ‘assists’ from the Pokéball, just before Bogi made his entrance.

The teammates exchange friendly welcomes and before Bogdan made jokes about Buddy’s character appearance. But the two young Kings could never truly oppose each other.

On how it felt to be experiencing the weekend together, Bogi joked “It means we need to make it to Sunday’s game” to which Buddy laughed and added, “I like that Bogi.”

And when the topic of the playoff run came up, Buddy Buckets responded “I think we have an extremely confident team, we’re young and we expect a lot from ourselves. We know we could have been better. We gave away a few games by us being young and inexperienced sometimes, but we’re headed in the right direction."

Kent then turned the tables to ask if there were any internal competitions between the two.

“Bogi has these weird European competitions that we have," Buddy said. "I love it because it keeps you locked in and focused, there is a lot of mental shooting in them and I like it a lot.”

“The mental game is the most important game, that’s what we believe” No.8 responded.