In honor of the team's final games at Sleep Train Arena, Kings.com is catching up with team legends who will be in attendance at the last game to get their thoughts and favorite memories from playing in Sacramento.
For six seasons, Vlade Divac won the affections of fans in Sacramento with not just his high level of play, but also his leadership and warm personality.
No. 21 was a crucial component to the Kings success during his time suiting up in the purple and black, helping guide his team to the playoffs during every season he spent in Sactown.
Now that his playing days are over, Divac remains with the Kings organization, serving as the Vice President of Basketball Operations and General Manager.
We caught up with Vlade to get his thoughts and reflections on his playing days, as the Kings will soon bid farewell to their current home at Sleep Train Arena.
On what was special about playing in the arena:
Divac: “It was really a home court advantage. The fans really know basketball in Sacramento. They knew when we really needed their support and they were a big part of our success here. It’s very emotional for me because it almost feels like I’m losing a home.”
On his favorite memories at Sleep Train Arena:
“I have a lot of memories. Walking through the tunnel before the game every night was always a special moment for me and before tip-off when we would dance together as a team. Also, the night the team retired my jersey was a very special and emotional time for me.”
On the opening of Golden 1 Center:
“I’m very excited. For the future of this franchise and the future of Sacramento as a city, having a new arena is very important. Hopefully the spirit of ARCO [Arena] will be in [Golden 1 Center], too.”
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