hall of fame

Kyle Ramos

Even with a long list of accomplishments already under Chris Webber’s belt, the Kings legend has still yet to get the nod for the Naismith Basketball Hall of Fame.

The most prestigious recognition in hoops has eluded C-Webb with each passing year begging the same question from Kings and basketball fans alike: why is Chris Webber not being inducted this time?

There has been debate between fans, analysts and everyone in between. However, two of the people who know Webber’s game best recently weighed in. Bobby Jackson and Doug Christie both played alongside No. 4 during his memorable tenure in Sacramento and discussed their former teammate on NBC Sports’ Purple Talk podcast.

“I think he is a Hall of Famer, if you look at his numbers, if you look at his career,” Jackson noted. “He didn’t win an NBA championship here in Sacramento, but he allowed us the glory and he gave us a gust of wind that we needed to be relevant.”

“Undoubtedly, in my opinion, [Webber’s] a Hall of Famer, no doubt,” added Christie. “He set the tone of being unselfish and I think that speaks to who he was even more.”

When C-Webb retired in 2008, he finished with an NBA Rookie of the Year award, five All-Star nods, and five appearances on All-NBA teams. The former No. 1 overall selection averaged 20.7 points, 9.8 rebounds, 4.2 assists, 1.4 blocks, and 1.4 steals across his 17 years in the Association.

As noted by NBC Sports, this made the Michigan product one of just five players in NBA history who also tallied averages of more than 20 points, nine rebounds, and four assists across their career. That list includes elite company such as Wilt Chamberlain, Elgin Baylor, Larry Bird and Billy Cunningham.

Jackson also added that Webber “[was] one of the most talented big men I’ve ever seen with his ball handling, his shooting, his passing and he was also a great teammate.”

Whether or not we ever see No. 4 enshrined in basketball immortality remains to be seen, but one thing that’s for sure is that he definitely has the votes of No. 13 and No. 24.

chris-webber-a-no-doubt-hall-of-famer-according-to-former-teammates

Chris Webber a ‘No Doubt’ Hall of Famer According to Former Teammates

Alex Kramers

Inside the royal Symphony Hall in Springfield, Mass., among dozens of NBA icons recognized by their first names alone, Kings legend Vlade Divac – with his customary five-o’clock shadow and a grin as wide as his improbable wingspan – was the center of attention at Friday night's Hall of Fame induction.

In front of an overflow crowd in the auditorium and NBA TV cameras that broadcast his biggest basketball moment from New England to his native Serbia, Sacramento’s star player-turned-executive demonstrated his humbleness and gratitude to the sport – and illustrated why he was always so willing to make the extra pass.

“To me, the game of basketball has always been about love,” said Divac, a red curtain adorned with NBA logos serving as a backdrop. “I believe that love gives you the freedom and power to share your best self and to inspire others. Love liberates you and gives you the power to make the impossible possible.

“Just like in life, when you play basketball, you have to give in order to receive. On the court, you're not only making things move along by giving the ball, but you're also giving your physical and mental strength, your passion, your talent, your trust in your teammates. This way the power can multiply and the whole team wins.”

That share-the-wealth mindset – “You have to put aside ‘me’ and become ‘we,’” he reinforced –distinguished the 7-foot-1 center as a generational player and beloved teammate.

Those who played with him marvel at the way Divac put on low-post clinics with his unlimited bag of tricks and deceptive quickness – so often finding cutters with intuitive, how-did-he-see-that passes – and never shied away from defending many of the prominent centers who occupy spots in the Hall’s Honors Ring.

Those who followed his extraordinary journey express that it was only a matter of time until the Hall’s double-doors would swing open for a one-of-a-kind player who blazed a trail for future generations of overseas players seeking NBA success.

And those who’ve been around him long enough are even quicker to mention that, for all the qualities that made him a revolutionary basketball star, he’s an even better person; a kindhearted, gentle giant who’s devoted innumerable hours and funds to humanitarian causes near and dear to his heart.

Divac, the first foreign-born winner of the NBA’s J. Walter Kennedy Citizenship Award in 2000, helped to start the first-ever Basketball Without Borders camp in Europe, and, together with his wife, founded the Ana and Vlade Divac Foundation in 2007 to help refugees address housing needs.

“Vlade is a truly special, incredible and caring human being,” said Doug Christie, the former Kings defensive wizard who’s now an NBC Sports California broadcaster. “From the moment we met, what struck me was how true of a person Vlade is, and from right there, he had a friend for life. From his country being in war and watching his humanitarian efforts, to seeing his love for his family and friends, it just speaks to the man he is.

“Oh, yeah – he’s a pretty damn good basketball player, as well! Vlade was before his time on the court – a skilled big man that could execute every part of the game – and he was the perfect teammate.”

In a career that spanned 16 seasons, Divac, selected via the International Committee, became the first foreign-born and trained player to appear in 1,000 games, and is one of seven in League history – regardless of background – who’ve amassed at least 13,000 points, 9,000 rebounds, 3,000 assists and 1,500 blocks.

Outside of his NBA accomplishments, he was named among FIBA’s 50 Greatest Players, inducted into the FIBA Hall of Fame and collected two Olympic silver medals and a total of five EuroBasket and FIBA World Championship golds.

“Vlade has been a transformational leader on and off the court for his entire career,” said Kings owner and chairman Vivek Ranadivé. “As an international basketball pioneer and global ambassador for the game, he has used his platform to make the world a better place for over three decades. From his efforts to start Basketball Without Borders to his lasting impact on how the game is played, he continues to serve as an inspiration and role model for players of all ages around the world.”

When Divac arrived in the U.S. three decades ago, speaking limited English and carrying only a pair of duffel bags and oversized dreams, few – including Divac himself – could’ve imagined the kind of lingering, revolutionary imprint he’d have on the game.

Last season, 108 international players from 42 countries and territories were listed on NBA opening-night rosters. In 1989, the Serbia native was one of five pioneering Eastern Europeans who set sights on breaking barriers and disproving the long-held stigma that overseas players couldn’t compete with their American counterparts.

“Vlade was one of the first Europeans to come to the NBA. He opened the gates for European basketball players who dreamed of one day playing in the NBA,” said Peja Stojakovic, a teammate for six seasons in Sacramento and on the gold-medal Yugoslavian national team in the 2002 FIBA World Championship. “I had the opportunity to play with Vlade and witness what kind of player, leader and most importantly, what kind of person he is.”

While Divac couldn’t be happier that he has inspired so many overseas players to follow in his footsteps, when he delivered his heartfelt induction speech at the podium, he devoted much of the time to thanking all the people who, in turn, opened doors for him.

He began by thanking his presenter, Jerry West – the mastermind behind two L.A. dynasties – for taking a risk by bringing a then-unknown European prospect stateside 30 years ago.

“The game of basketball does not exclude,” Divac said. “It is a game that includes people of all backgrounds, races, and nationalities. Thanks to the vision of Jerry West, I was one of the first foreign basketball players to be drafted into the NBA.”

He continued by listing the names of the coaches, including Rick Adelman and Pete Carril, and prominent teammates in the former Yugoslavia and NBA – with a special nod to Stojakovic and a beaming Chris Webber in the audience — who “made this thing possible.”

Divac saved his most impassioned thanks for his family, from his wife and children to his parents and brother, without whom he would’ve never ascended from a 13,330-person town in southwestern Serbia to a select group of some 400 inductees immortalized in basketball’s grand museum.

In his early teens, Divac, with the blessing of his mother, Radmila, and late father, Milenko, relocated from his hometown, Prijepolje, a village too small to field a competitive basketball program, to play on a cadet team in Kraljevo.

“I remember when I made the big decision for myself and for my family, basically,” he said recently. “I was just 14 years old, and I had to leave my parents to pursue basketball. It was just my mom, dad	 and brother, who were sitting together. I was just listening to what they were going to say because they had the key, and dad let me go to dream my dreams.”

By 16, Divac was playing at his country’s highest professional level, turning heads on a senior national team that featured some of the greatest European stars of the century, including Drazen Petrovic, Dino Radja and Toni Kukoc.

The gangly, do-it-all standout soon caught the eye of prominent NBA talent-evaluators; along with West, then-Warriors general manager Don Nelson and Spurs assistant Gregg Popovich were among the executives vying for the 7-footer’s Draft rights. During an era when seldom European players made the massive jump to the NBA, Divac, then 21, wasted no time packing his bags for Hollywood when the Lakers selected him with the No. 26 pick.

“Back then, we would get a few tapes of games that were already played, and obviously, the Lakers and Celtics were the big teams with big players,” he said. “We all dreamed, one day, we would make that step forward. Fortunately for me, it was me who was drafted by the Lakers in the first round. I was the first European who was actually drafted and came (to America) the same year … I really committed to go there and try to make it, and kind of opened the door for everybody else.”

He entered the NBA landscape as an international man of mystery, perceived as a long-term project and afterthought on scouting reports. But after an early adjustment period to the physicality and speed of the NBA compared to European competition – “I felt like it’s two different sports,” he said – Divac impressed with the kind of mobility and ball-handling ability that were unheard of for a player of his size.

“Right in the first practice,” said Hall of Famer Magic Johnson on NBA TV’s telecast, “I saw that he really could play.”

Mentored by team captains Johnson and James Worthy, as well as longtime veterans Byron Scott and A.C. Green, Divac, All-Rookie First Team selection, spent seven formative years in Southern California, elevating his game each season and making his presence felt in the postseason during the Lakers’ run to the 1991 Finals.

After a two-year stop in Charlotte, Divac, intrigued by an overhauled Kings roster, ventured to Sacramento, where he’d enjoy his most productive and memorable six-year stretch. His No. 21 jersey was retired in a 2009 ceremony, and proudly hangs in the rafters at Golden 1 Center as a reminder of his indelible influence on the franchise.

The Sacramento center didn’t receive the same kind of national recognition as Webber, a five-time All-NBA Teamer and perennial All-Star, or Stojakovic, the sweet-shooting wing who brought home back-to-back Three-Point Contest trophies. But Divac, bestowed the title of “best teammate” by nearly anyone with whom he’s shared a locker room, served as the Kings’ irreplaceable leader and galvanizer during the franchise’s ascent from punchy first-round fodder to legitimate title challenger.

The most common refrain about those Kings teams is how they found the recipe for the way basketball is supposed to be played – unselfishly, collaboratively, trustingly – and Divac’s well-rounded, reliable game, and predilection for keeping his teammates loose and confident, were the not-so-secret ingredients.

“Vlade is one of the most genuine human beings you will ever meet,” said former Kings guard Bobby Jackson. “He was the glue that held our diverse team together.”

To this day, it’s practically impossible to watch only a single highlight of Divac’s passing on YouTube; doing so comes with the risk of falling down an inescapable rabbit hole of montages that are marvelous for their balance of showmanship and simplicity.

A center with the vision of a point guard, he turned the assist into an artform, slinging one-handed dimes over his shoulder or tossing diagonal bounce passes to find teammates perfectly in stride behind the arc. Sometimes they were unexpectedly flashy, like a no-look dish to No. 4 streaking to the rim, and other times they were textbook routine, but just about any pass out of his hands was on the money.

“Vlade was a special player,” Webber said. “He was one of the first big-men hybrids and his impact on the game was felt worldwide. I remember watching Vlade run with the Lakers ... he was so smooth. He was a great teammate and one of the best passers I’ve been honored to play with.”

There’s no debate that Divac belongs, by any statistical measure, in the pantheon of greatest passing centers the game has ever seen. From the time he entered the League, of all players listed at 7-feet or taller, none averaged more assists per 36 minutes (3.8), and only two – Marc and Pau Gasol – have assisted on a higher share of teammates’ baskets (16.0), according to basketball-reference.com.

Divac was a rare, unassuming star who could dominate a game without scoring in bunches, but rather by making everyone around him better. And when he opted to keep the ball, he’d slip in underhanded scoop shots that left defenders standing befuddled or pull opposing centers away from the rim with a smooth face-up jumper.

With Divac anchoring the middle, the Kings won nearly three-quarters of the time in the regular season (301-159 overall) and reached the Playoffs in each of his six years, twice winning the division crown and coming an overtime short of reaching the Finals in 2002.

Now, entering his fifth season as Kings general manager, fresh off a season in which Sacramento made a remarkable 12-win improvement, Divac is hoping his team, one day, surpasses the myriad accomplishments of his early 2000s squads.

Before he stepped down a flight of stairs from the Symphony Hall stage, the 51-year-old had one more message for the audience, a touching simile for how the all-encompassing game continues to shape his worldview.

“Basketball is like life, and life is like basketball; it’s just a game,” he said. “So let's play it the best we can while we're still here: with love, compassion, selflessness, fair play, and supporting each other to be bigger and better human beings.”

vlade-divac-redefined-center-position-paved-the-way-for-international-players

Vlade Divac Redefined Center Position, Paved the Way for International Players

Before stepping into his current role as Sacramento’s General Manager, Vlade Divac was regarded as not only a Kings legend but someone who made a memorable mark on the game of basketball.

Divac’s accomplishments on the hardwood are set to receive the highest honor in hoops as he will be inducted into the Naismith Memorial Basketball Hall of Fame this weekend. With such a special form of recognition at hand, former teammates and current colleagues chimed in on what made No. 21 so special.

“Vlade has been a transformational leader on and off the court for his entire career. As an international basketball pioneer and global ambassador for the game, he has used his platform to make the world a better place for over three decades,” said Kings Owner and Chairman Vivek Ranadivé.

“From his efforts to start Basketball Without Borders to his lasting impact on how the game is played, he continues to serve as an inspiration and role model for players of all ages around the world.”

Peja Stojakovic, who spent many years playing alongside Vlade and now serves as Sacramento’s Assistant GM, had this to say.

“Vlade was one of the first Europeans to come to the NBA. He opened the gates for European basketball players who dreamed of one day playing in the NBA.”

“I had the opportunity to play with Vlade and witness what kind of player, leader and most importantly what kind of person he is. His friendship has meant a lot to me,” said Stojakovic.

As his former frontcourt running mate, Chris Webber also added some additional praise.

“[Vlade] was one of the first big men hybrids and his impact on the game was felt worldwide,” said C-Webb.

“He was a great teammate and one of the best passers I’ve been honored to play with. All of that being said he is a better man than hooper ... he is a wonderful husband, father and a loyal friend.”

“Vlade Divac is a truly special, incredible and caring human being. From the moment we met what struck me was how true of a person Vlade is and from right there he had a friend for life,” said former teammate and current NBC Sports color commentator Doug Christie.

“From his country being in war and watching his humanitarian efforts, to seeing his love for his family and friends it just speaks to the man he is. Vlade was before his time on the court, a skilled big man that could execute every part of the game and he was the perfect teammate.”

“He was the glue that held our diverse team together,” said Assistant Coach for Player Development Bobby Jackson. “I’m proud to call Vlade a friend and work closely with him as we build the new era of Kings basketball.”

Stay current with all the events of Vlade’s Hall of Fame induction this weekend on Kings social media channels and Kings.com!

kings-legends-reflect-on-divacs-hall-of-fame-career

Kings Legends Reflect on Divac’s Hall of Fame Career

sacjwise

On Friday, Rick Adelman was announced as a nominee for the 2019 Basketball Hall of Fame.

Rachel Nichols made the announcement on ESPN's "The Jump" with Brian Windhorst and Byron Scott. In the segment, Scott called Adelman, "one of the most underrated coaches I've been around."

Adelman coached the Kings for eight seasons, making Playoff appearances in all eight campaigns. He accumulated a still franchise-best 395 wins, including five-consecutive 50 win seasons and a berth in the 2002 Western Conference Finals.

The former Kings coach finished his career with 1,042 wins, which ranks No. 9 in NBA history.

If Adelman were to be selected, enshrinement festivities would take place in Springfield, Mass., from September 5-7, 2019.

rick-adelman-nominated-for-basketball-hall-of-fame

Rick Adelman Nominated for Basketball Hall of Fame

Benedict Tagle

Vlade Divac is arguably one of the best European players to ever play the game. His accomplishments are many and helped spearhead a new wave of European players in the League. Looking at the whole of his career, the Sacramento Kings Vice President of Basketball Operations and General Manager has an argument to join the Naismith Basketball Hall of Fame.

As many Kings fans remember, the Serbian center had a unique set of abilities. One of the best passing big men of all time, he could get the ball to every corner of the court. He had a soft and feathery touch around the hoop.

Despite playing a good amount of his career in Europe, Divac’s NBA stats are still impressive. He is top 50 in League history, in terms of total rebounds. Along this same line, he is the 32nd best in total offensive rebounds and top 50 in total defensive rebounds in NBA history.

Vlade is also top 30 in career blocks. He helped anchor several defensive units throughout his playing career, including the Kings teams of the early 2000s. He ended his career with a respectable 1.4 blocks per game average.

No. 21 was the first player born and trained outside of the United States to play at least 1000 NBA games. He helped establish a confidence among front offices in foreign-born players to handle the rigors of the best basketball League in the world. He made the NBA All-Rookie First Team and later he made an NBA All-Star game. He is one of four basketball players born and trained in Europe to have his number retired by a team.

Divac is also part of a very exclusive group - he is one of seven players in NBA history to record at least 13,000 points, 9,000 rebounds, 3,000 assists and 1,500 blocked shots. The other players on that list include Kareem Abdul-Jabbar, Tim Duncan, Shaquille O’Neal, Kevin Garnett, Pau Gasol and Hakeem Olajuwon. Except for Divac, all the retired players that have accomplished the feat are in the Hall of Fame or surefire inductees when they are eligible.

Springfield is unique because it recognizes the accomplishments outside of the League more so than its Hall of Fame counterparts in other sports. In addition to his stellar NBA career, Divac’s international career pushes his case over the top.

He was awarded the Mister Europa Player of the Year in 1989, celebrating him as the best European player in the world, across all the professional leagues. He was named among FIBA’s 50 Greatest Players, as well as 50 Greatest EuroLeague Contributors.

He helped earn a silver medal in the 1988 Olympiad with the Yugoslavian national team. In 1996, Divac’s Serbian national team earned him another silver Olympic medal. He has won multiple gold medals with his national teams in FIBA EuroBasket—1989, 1991, and 1995. His team won bronze 1987 and 1999. In the FIBA World Cup, he helped lead his teams to gold in 1990 and 2002. They also earned bronze in 1986.  Not only were his accomplishments among the top of the international game, they were consistent over a period of a decade and a half.

With the entirety of his career considered, Divac deserves a long look to be enshrined in Springfield.

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The Hall of Fame Case for Vlade Divac

Shahbaz Khan

through-the-years-kings-vs-allen-iverson

Through the Years: Kings vs Allen Iverson

With a Kings logo prominent among the emblems gracing the flowing red curtains behind him, Mitch Richmond – light dancing off his diamond earrings and a black suit jacket draped over the broad shoulders that carried his teams to countless hard-fought victories – soaked in his biggest basketball moment at Friday’s Naismith Basketball Hall of Fame Enshrinement Ceremony.

“It’s finally hit me,” he said softly, shortly before stepping foot inside the majestic Springfield Symphony Hall auditorium. “I’m just glad (the Hall of Fame) didn’t overlook me, because I felt underrated my whole career. Having the opportunity now to be rewarded for all the hard work, the sweat I put in, those hours in the gym, I can say it really paid off and it was all worth it.”

With his family members, lifelong supporters and NBA peers in attendance, Richmond, flanked on stage by his two presenters – tightknit friends, mentors and former teammates Chris Mullin and Ralph Sampson – became the first player during the Sacramento era and 14th in franchise history to be honored with basketball’s highest distinction.

No. 2 – his voice as steady, strong and consistent as his NBA game – took a deep breath at the podium before delivering a heartfelt, introspective speech, dedicating his accomplishments to his family members, friends and advisors, while paying tribute to the pivotal role the sport has played in his life.

“Basketball became my vehicle for self-confidence,” he said. “Off the court, I was very shy, but on the basketball court, that was a different story. I was confident, determined and I felt I could do no wrong. The ball has meant everything to me from the first time I ever picked it up, and it continues to drive me and guide me to this day.”

With the spotlight shining brightly upon his enduring legacy, the six-time All-Star retraced his steps, expressing gratitude to every organization he was a part of during his esteemed career – conveying his deepest appreciation for his spectacular Sacramento tenure.

“It turned out to be a great seven-year run with the Kings,” he said. “It’s the place where I played some of my best basketball, and the Kings fans, well, they simply are the best. It’s an honor to have my jersey, No. 2, retired by the Kings organization.”

After being presented with his prestigious, navy-blue Hall of Fame jacket at the Class of 2014 Press Conference a day prior, Richmond – seated at a circular table surrounded by numerous media outlets – further reflected on his indelible Kings tenure, voicing immense pride in “taking all of Sacramento in the Hall” with him.

“Being the first Hall of Famer from Sacramento, I think they deserve to go in with me,” he said. “I had a great seven years there – (earned) a lot of individual accolades – and they deserve a lot (of credit) for the push that got me here today.”

A wide smile crossed his face as the 6-foot-5 guard graciously recounted deafening applause and roaring ovations from the moment he stepped foot in then-ARCO Arena.

“When I went to Sacramento, they embraced me right away,” he said. “They supported me from Day 1 – they supported that team even when we were struggling – so I always give a lot of credit to the fans for coming out and having a big sell-out every night.”

Along with the devoted fans who cheered his name, No. 2 reiterated the importance of his biggest advocates and closest companions, who, in turn, couldn’t have been prouder to have played such pivotal roles in helping him reach the pinnacle of NBA success.

“It’s awesome (to present Richmond),” said Mullin. “It’s great to be asked to do that by such a great friend. Although we were only teammates for three years, it’s more of a blessing to be his friend for over 25 years.”

“It’s great to see Mitch going into the Hall of Fame and going in as the first (Sacramento) King – he’s very deserving,” said former Kings General Manager and current Kings TV Color Analyst Jerry Reynolds. “He’s in the Hall of Fame because of the numbers he put up in Sacramento and because he was such a dominant player during those seven years. Everything I’d hoped would happen with Mitch, happened, and I couldn’t be happier.”

A sizable contingent of Kings front office personnel, including Chairman and Majority Owner Vivek Ranadivé and General Manager Pete D’Alessandro, joined Mullin – who serves as Advisor to the Chairman – in making the cross-country trip to Western Massachusetts to congratulate the franchise icon.

“It’s an honor and a blessing to be here,” said Ranadivé. “Mitch had his best days as a Sacramento King. He was an All-Star six times, he’s a class act and he continues to be part of our organization. This is a proud day for Sacramento.”

“It’s special to say that you’ve know a guy for this many years and to see him at the epitome of his profession,” said D’Alessandro. “It makes me all the more proud to be a part of this (event) and a part of the Kings.

“(We have) a fanbase that feels ownership—and rightly so – of the team (and) the players, and Mitch may be the greatest player who ever put on a Kings uniform.”

Nicknamed the “The Rock” in honor of his physical post-up game and propensity for overpowering opponents in the paint, the moniker just as aptly epitomizes Richmond’s remarkably steady year-to-year scoring average, as the fifth pick in the 1988 Draft is one of only seven players in League history to notch at least 21 points per game in each of his first 10 seasons.

“He’s a Hall of Famer for a reason – night-in and night-out, he was a guy you could count on (every) year,” says Richmond’s idol, four-time NBA-ABA MVP Julius “Dr. J” Erving. “Maybe he never got a lot of the recognition that a lot of Hall of Famers have (or became) a household name, but amongst the players – which is the important seal of approval – he’s right there with the best of the best.”

Just as he demanded the respect and admiration of defenders assigned the unenviable task of slowing down his prolific scoring, the Florida native commands the attention of every fellow basketball legend.

“Mitch (was) so silky smooth,” says five-time NBA champion Magic Johnson. “He’s a quiet superstar – much like James Worthy was – just a quiet assassin. He, Tim Hardaway and Chris Mullin made up a trio that was unstoppable (in Golden State). I’m happy for Mitch and his wife Juli – they’re close friends of ours … I’m just so proud of him.”

“I’ve always admired Mitch Richmond – he made a great contribution to the League, he was a steady player and a really good guy in the locker room,” affirms Worthy. “He’s one of the icons of the League … Mitch is one of those guys (whom) I consider a superstar in the NBA. It’s well-deserved and I’m happy for him.”

In addition to No. 2’s storied on-court success, former NBA Commissioner David Stern reveals he’s long appreciated the Kansas State product’s unmistakable love for the sport.

“He was so much fun to watch because he was enjoying the game,” says Stern. “He was like a firecracker – instant offense and he would get his whole team going.

“(He had) that warrior (mentality) ... he helped a lot of teams in a lot of different ways.”

Throughout the course of his memorable career, Richmond took home Rookie of the Year honors, hoisted the 1995 All-Star Game MVP trophy in his third of six midseason showcase appearances, notched five All-NBA Team berths, and won gold and bronze Olympic medals.

“Mitch was one of the best (shooting) guards we ever had in this league,” says four-time Defensive Player of the Year Dikembe Mutombo. “He contributed so much to the Olympic Team … he had a wonderful career in Sacramento, Golden State (and) all the way to L.A., so as a fan, I’m so happy for him and I’m glad to see his name being called out.”

Far and away the highest-scoring guard during the 1990s, No. 2 amassed 16,178 points over the course of the decade at a 22.5 points-per-game clip, ranking well ahead of contemporaries Reggie Miller (20.6) and Clyde Drexler (20.4).

On Feb. 15, 2001, Richmond – who sits 37th on the NBA’s all-time scoring list and ranks 29th in three-pointers made (1,326) – connected on a 16-foot jumpshot in the second quarter, becoming just the 26th player to pour in 20,000 career points.

“Mitch is one of the all-time great scorers – just a tough, tough, tough player in the NBA – and I’m just so happy for him to be honored tonight,” said three-time Coach of the Year and current Miami President Pat Riley. “All those years were incredible, and I just want to wish him the best.”

While his offensive prowess is routinely celebrated, Richmond was far from a one-dimensional player, as his steadfast commitment to making an impact on both ends of the court has been equally admired by his peers.

“At the (shooting) guard spot, if you didn’t come and play hard on both ends, you could get embarrassed,” he explains. “At that time, so many guys were difficult to guard – talking about Michael (Jordan), talking about Reggie (Miller), Clyde Drexler and I can go down the line. I always liked playing defense anyway, so it was great.”

Characterized by Jordan as his toughest opponent, Richmond frustrated rival counterparts by refusing to back down, using his high basketball IQ and muscular frame to keep players off balance and stifle their effectiveness.

“He was such a competitor – every time I played against Mitch, I knew it was going to be a tough night,” says 14-year NBA veteran Jim Jackson. “He was physical, so especially (for a player like) me – who wanted to post up – Mitch knew how to use his lower frame to get me off the post. Intelligence is how I’d describe Mitch as a basketball player, offensively and defensively.”

“My whole thing is when you start talking Hall of Fame players, just go ask the players who played against him – that’s when you’ll find out,” says former All-Star and current NBA TV analyst Steve Smith. “(There were) so many great (shooting) guards in my era – Mitch, Michael, Reggie (Miller), Reggie Lewis, Allan Houston, Clyde Drexler – and as far as talking about one of the toughest guards on both ends, tough-as-nails, two-way players, Mitch was a Hall of Famer the day he retired.”

The Kings legend acknowledges he wasn’t as certain the pivotal call would come, recounting his hand shaking as “Hall of Fame” flashed on his phone’s caller ID in early April. In the middle of a scout meeting in Chicago, Ill. Richmond – who serves as Kings Director of Pro Personnel – took a deep breath and stepped into the hallway to answer, his mind racing with anticipation.

“I was very, very nervous – when I went outside and took the call, I didn’t know what to expect,” he recalls. “The only fact I remember is them saying, ‘You made it,’ so I was pretty ecstatic, overwhelmed and overjoyed. It was a great moment. I think I might’ve hung up the phone on them!”

Finally seeing his name among highly-distinguished company inside basketball’s stately shrine, Richmond – pausing to reflect upon his journey and myriad of records, awards and achievements – put his impressive career feats in perspective.

“Getting in the Hall of Fame, it trumps everything,” he says. “There are a lot of things I enjoyed – I had a great opportunity with the (1996) Olympic Team, getting a (2002 championship) ring and winning (1995 All-Star Game) MVP. The Hall of Fame is like icing on the cake, and I’m just honored to be here.

“It’s just remarkable – I never would’ve thought (I’d join) ‘Dr. J’ and Oscar Robertson … I’m just blessed and happy I had the opportunity to play the game the way I did and now be amongst the greats.”

While Richmond was influenced by the grace, fluidity and charisma of “Dr. J” – frequently imitating his hero’s soaring dunks on eight-foot rims in local elementary-school playgrounds – he didn’t formally trade in his football cleats for basketball sneakers until his sophomore year of high school.

“Growing up, football always came first, so I didn’t switch over until the 10th grade,” he says. “But when (my love for basketball) entered, it never left after that.”

The Ft. Lauderdale, Fla. native attributes his tough-nosed mentality on the hardwood to strenuous, physically demanding games on gridirons in his hometown, alongside future NFL superstar wide receiver Michael Irvin.

“I remember people said, ‘(Basketball) is a physical game,’ and I said, ‘You call this physical?’” he chuckles. “I had a little success already just by playing hard, playing aggressive and playing with intensity, so I loved playing that way. I loved the contact and I loved the ability to play without pads – I was a lot faster without pads!”

Upon entering the NBA, with a game personifying brawn and willpower, with a touch of finesse, Richmond presented nightly matchup nightmares for defenders, utilizing his burly, 6-foot-5 frame to set up on the low block and seamlessly get to the rim, as well as his silky-smooth outside touch to connect from behind the arc.

“(Richmond) was like Oscar Robertson – big and strong – and he could get to any place on the court,” says Erving. “He didn’t let players dictate to him where he was going to score from – he dictated to the players where he was going to score from and still scored.”

The productive guard routinely found ways to put the ball in the basket – from pull-up jumpers to off-balance fadeaways to acrobatic reverse lay-ups – despite typically being the focus of opposing teams’ game-plans and facing endless double- and triple-teams.

“Mitch was deceptively quick – (quicker) than he looked – and he was extremely strong,” says Worthy. “He had an overall game, but his offensive game – his face-up, his jab-steps, his upper body strength and the fact that he could shoot – made him almost unstoppable.”

In Golden State, Richmond joined Mullin and Hardaway to form the legendary, fast-paced “Run-TMC” trio, electrifying the Bay Area and exhilarating fans across the country with stunning, high-octane offensive showcases.

“I truly, truly enjoyed it – it was a fun time of basketball,” says Richmond. “A lot of teams couldn’t really understand what we were doing because we were running a lot of motion (offense) and you couldn’t key in on one guy … people don’t realize (how much tougher it is), when teams are preparing for you, sending two or three guys at you.”

Mullin echoes a similar sentiment as he reminisces on the brief but eternally impactful tenure.

“That was the most fun I ever had playing basketball,” he says.

“(Mitch was) the best teammate you can ask for – he came in as a rookie (and it) seemed like he was a five-time All-Star already (with a) totally polished game.”

Acquired by the Kings in exchange for the Draft rights to Billy Owens prior to the 1991-92 season, Richmond spent the prime of his career in Sacramento, delivering magnificent, long-term production that cemented him as one of the best players to ever don a purple-and-black uniform.

“People fall in love with Draft picks, but I wanted a proven star – and that’s what we got with Mitch,” says Reynolds, recalling No. 2 scoring 35 points in just his second game as a King.

“Mitch was the epitome of the shooting guard position at a very productive level, and he was just breathtaking to watch. With the exception of Michael Jordan – maybe you can make a case for Clyde Drexler – I don’t know anyone who was better at the position at the time.”

Richmond’s name remains prominent in Sacramento-era record books, inscribed atop the leaderboard in points (12,070), field goals made (4,230) and attempted (9,338), and free throws made (2,617) and attempted (3,088). The guard ranks second in three-pointers made (993) and attempted (2,460), assists (2,128), steals (670) and games played (517), while trailing only Robertson and Jack Twyman in all-time franchise scoring.

“He earned his nickname for a reason – he was physically imposing and all the players respected him for his toughness,” says Reynolds. “A lot of opponents were intimidated going up against him (because) he could obviously score the ball, but he also could really defend and hold his own on that end.”

Although he was recognized through a multitude of annual accolades and honors – including being routinely picked by opposing coaches as an All-Star reserve – “The Rock” aimed to only improve individually each season, but set a lasting example as the quintessential leader on impressionable Sacramento squads.

“(I focused on) doing the necessary things in the offseason to be prepared, going through the hard work in the summer time – always from Day 1,” he says.

“I was the veteran (on the Kings), and we had a lot of young guys who came to be pretty good players, but at that time, we were trying to find our identity. It was just a learning curve, but I think we went at it the right way.”

Former Kings teammate Walt Williams continues to marvel at Richmond’s work ethic and adore the strong-willed guard for taking him under his wing.

“He was a great leader on and off the court – he was a great inspiration,” says Williams. “He was a good example of how you’re supposed to conduct yourself as a professional. I think he really showed me the ropes, basically showed me how to be a professional in this game, (in terms of) my work ethic and how I handle myself off court.

“He definitely exemplifies what hard work can do for you. I’ve never played with a guy who worked as hard as him my whole career, so he (set) a great example.”

Richmond’s uncompromising determination culminated in a Kings postseason berth in 1996, in which Sacramento – led by No. 2’s Playoff-career-high 37 points on April 28 – evened its first-round series at one game apiece against the top-seeded SuperSonics.

“Mitch dominated that game, which was probably the most important game of his career,” says Reynolds. “He really bothered Gary Payton on both ends and (Seattle) had no answer for him. He just said, ‘Enough of this’ and took over. It was incredible to watch.”

The impressive victory harvested an astounding atmosphere in Sacramento unlike anything Richmond had ever experienced, as purple-and-black-clad fans waited for the team at the airport and boisterous crowds brought out unparalleled “ARCO Thunder” over the ensuing two contests.

“The fan-base was really crazy every year that I was there, but that night there was just an unbelievable roar in the building,” he describes. “It just pumped you up and got you excited. It was just great seeing the city of Sacramento being represented in the Playoffs at that time. It was beautiful to see.”

Another of Richmond’s most-cherished experiences occurred on Dec. 15, 1995, when the guard poured in a Sacramento-era record 25 points in the fourth quarter, finishing with a career-high-tying 47 points to go along with seven assists, six rebounds and four steals in a comeback road victory against the Houston Rockets.

“It was very special because that was the team that won the championship (the previous) year,” says No. 2, who scored 13 consecutive Kings points to give his squad the lead for good in the final frame. “Going up against Clyde – another guy who was tough to guard – I tried to make him work, and I wanted to go all the way on that one.”

Earning the endorsement of many of the League’s greatest players, coaches and executives, Richmond’s incomparable, two-way game cements his legacy as one of the most illustrious standouts of his era.

“When you think about true (shooting) guards, and how a guy should play the game, you think about Mitch Richmond,” says fellow Class of 2014 inductee and seven-time All-Star Alonzo Mourning. “He could score the basketball, he could defend and he obviously had this toughness about him. You put him in the top five that ever played that position the right way.”

As the unforgettable festivities came to a close, Richmond – carrying a euphoric smile along with his Hall of Fame trophy – looked ahead to what his future has in store while continuing to bask in the picture-perfect present.

“I’m going to celebrate all month – I’ve been celebrating since they announced it!” he said.

“Right now, I’m just trying to get the Kings back on the right track. I want to put the Kings back on top.”

For generations of Kings fans across the globe, Richmond represents the franchise’s first elite superstar and role model – a prized local favorite who helped put Sacramento on the basketball map in the mid-1990s and whose name remains synonymous with a hardnosed, tenacious mentality.

No. 2’s loyal followers expressed their support for the star guard by using the hashtag #RockTheHOF on Twitter, thanking the former guard for his timeless on-court production and a lifetime of treasured memories.

Following an overwhelming outpour of support for the former guard, Click Here to check out some of Kings.com’s favorite Tweets.

richmond-enters-hall-of-fame

Richmond Enters Hall of Fame

गुरुवार की सुबह जब बारबरा रस्‍ट ने सैक्रामेंटो किंग्‍स के लॉकर रूम में प्रवेश किया, तो वे अपने स्‍वागत की तैयारियां देखकर दंग रह गईं - चारों तरफ लकड़ी के लॉकरों को टीम के स्‍मृतिचिह्नों, जर्सियों और हस्‍ताक्षरों से सजाया गया था।

किंग्‍स परिवार में इस दिन को ''साइन लेडी'' के रूप में जाना जाता है क्‍योंकि इस��� दिन बारबरा को आधिकारिक तौर पर ईएसपीएन हॉल ऑफ़ फेम में शामिल किया गया था।

अश्रुपूरित नेत्रों के साथ रस्‍ट ने कहा, ''मैंने ऐसे स्‍वागत की कल्‍पना भी नहीं की थी - यह बेहद खूबसूरत है। यहां काम करने वाले सभी लोगों और इस सजावट में शामिल लोगों का मैं दिल से शुक्रिया देना चाहती हूं - यह मेरे लिए बहुत बड़ी चीज़ है कि [किंग्‍स] ने ऐसा किया।''

1985 से बारबरा और उनके पति, निको, पर्पल और ब्‍लैक के निष्‍ठावान समर्थक रहे हैं, और अंतत: उन्‍हें तब प्रतिष्‍ठा हासिल हुई जब उन्‍होंने टीम को रचनात्‍मक ढंग से सकारात्‍मक संदेश देने के लिए अपने हाथ से बनाए संकेतों को प्रदर्शित किया।

हालांकि रस्‍ट ब्रिस्‍टल में ईएसपीएन के इंडक्‍शन समारोहों में भाग नहीं ले पाईं, लेकिन कॉन., स्‍लैमसन, मित्र और किंग्‍स के एक्‍जेक्‍यूटिव - प्रेसिडेंट क्रिस ग्रैंजर और जनरल मैनेजर पीटी डीअलेस्‍सांद्रो सहित - के साथ उन्‍होंने अलग से समारोह को देखा। 

डीअलेस्‍सांद्रो ने कहा, ''हमारे लिए वह पहले दिन से ही हॉल ऑफ़ फेम में रही हैं जब हम इस दरवाजे के भीतर घुसे।''

हॉल ऑफ़ फेम में शामिल किए जाने वाले दो अन्‍य लोगों के परिचयों और भाषणों के बाद, बारबरा का पहले से टेप किया गया भाषण ईएसपीएन पर प्रसारित किया गया।

वीडियो में रस्‍ट ने कहा, ''मैं किंग्‍स के सभी प्रशंसकों को, सिर्फ सैक्रामेंटो के ही नहीं बल्कि दुनिया में फैले किंग्‍स के प्रशंसकों को, धन्‍यवाद देना चाहती हूं। किंग्‍स के प्रशंसकों ने ही मेरा नामांकन करवाया और मुझे वोट किया, लेकिन यह मेरा व्‍यक्तिगत पुरस्‍कार नहीं है। मैं ईएसपीएन के हॉल ऑफ़ फेम में शामिल होने के सम्‍मान को पूरे किंग्‍स परिवार के साथ साझा करना चाहती हूं, जिसमें प्रशंसक, किंग्‍स के सभी पुराने और वर्तमान खिलाड़ी, किंग्‍स का स्‍टाफ और यहां के कर्मचारी, सैक्रामेंटो का मीडिया, हमारे मेयर केविन जॉनसन और शहर के अन्‍य अधिकारी, और विवेक रणदिवे के नेतृत्‍व वाला हमारा शानदार नया स्‍वामी ग्रुप शामिल है।''

विनम्र स्‍वाभव वाली बारबरा को जब हॉल ऑफ फेम में नामांकन की सूचना मिली तो वे संकोच से भर उठीं, और उन्‍होंने अपनी जागरूकता का श्रेय निको के सोशल मीडिया से लगाव को दिया।

बारबरा ने कहा, ''मुझे अभी भी विश्‍वास नहीं होता कि यह सब हो रहा है। मुझे इसके होने का तबतक अहसास नहीं हुआ जबतक कि चीजें आगे नहीं बढ़ने लगीं क्‍योंकि मैं सोशल मीडिया का उपयोग नहीं करती हूं। मुझे पता चलता इसके पहले ईएसपीएन ने फाइनलिस्‍ट के तौर पर मेरा चयन कर लिया था। हालांकि शुरू में मैं हिचकिचाई, लेकिन मैंने अनेक प्रशंसकों से इस बारे में बात की और मुझे महसूस हुआ कि यह मेरे कद से बड़ी चीज थी। मैंने कभी नहीं सोचा था कि सैक्रामेंटो जैसे छोटे से बाजार को इतना बड़ा पुरस्‍कार मिलेगा, लेकिन यह किंग्‍स के प्रशंसकों का एक और प्रमाण है। जब वे कुछ करने की ठान लेते हैं, तो उसे कर के ही दम लेते हैं।''

हॉल ऑफ़ फेम के लिए साइन लेडी की शुरुआती घोषणा 2013 के अंत के दिनों में की गई थी, और उसी रात किंग्‍स ने दो बार के उपविजेता मियामी हीट को ओवरटाइम में हराया था।

हालांकि बारबरा को खूब प्रशंसा मिली, लेकिन उन्‍होंने तुरंत अपने सबसे बड़े समर्थकों को श्रेय देना शुरू कर दिया।

''मैं अपने पति, निको, और हमारी बेटी, जेनिफर को विशेष रूप से धन्‍यवाद देना चाहती हूं कि वे किंग्‍स की स्पिरिट में साझेदार बने रहे और किंग्‍स का मनोबल बढ़ाने के लिए सैकड़ों चिह्न बनाने में उन्‍होंने मेरी मदद की।''

हालांकि रस्‍ट परिवार 1988 से सीज़न टिकट धारक रहा है, लेकिन वे 2013-14 के सीज़न को सबसे बड़ा मानते हैं - नए खिला‍ड़ियों का शामिल किया जाना, नया स्‍वामित्‍व और 2016 में खुलने वाले नए एरिना के विवरण, और इन सबके साथ हॉल ऑफ़ फेम में शामिल किया जाना।

बारबरा ने कहा, ''मैं बहुत आभारी हूं और गर्व महसूस करती हूं कि सैक्रामेंटो पहला एनबीए फैनबेस होगा जिसका ईएसपीएन फैन हॉल ऑफ़ फेम में प्रतिनिधित्‍व होगा। हम एक छोटा बाजार हैं, लेकिन हमारे दिल बहुत बड़ें हैं और उसमें हमारे किंग्‍स के लिए बहुत अधिक प्‍यार, निष्‍ठा और भाव भरा हुआ है।''

किंग्‍स के प्रेसिडेंट क्रिस ग्रैंजर, जिन्‍होंने जोड़े को ईएसपीएन की ट्रॉफ़ी और टीम की तरफ से एक तोहफा - एक पर्सनलाइज्‍ड, क्रिस्‍टल टिफनी एंड कं. बास्‍केटबॉल - पेश किया, ने कहा, ''यह [बारबरा रस्‍ट] के लिए वास्‍तव में एक बड़ा दिन है, लेकिन वास्‍तव में यह हम सबके लिए एक बड़ा दिन है।''

हम बेहद रोमांचित और सम्‍मानित महसूस करते हैं कि आप सैक्रामेंटो किंग्‍स के प्रशंसक हैं। सच कहूं तो आप [और निको] दोनों अपने लचीलेपन, अपनी आशा, अपनी दृढ़ता, अपनी सामुदायिक-सोच और अपनी पारिवारिक स्पिरिट से सैक्रामेंटो की सर्वश्रेष्‍ठ खूबियों का प्रतिनिधित्‍व करते हैं''

पुरस्‍कार प्रदान करने से ठीक पहले, ग्रैंजर ने अपनी बात समाप्‍त करते हुए कहा, ''मुझे इस तथ्‍य से बहुत खुशी मिल रही है कि दुनिया के सर्वश्रेष्‍ठ प्रशंसकों और दुनिया के सबसे अधिक शोर करने वाले प्रशंसकों का प्रतिनिधि एक ऐसा व्‍यक्ति कर रहा है जिसे अपनी ओर से एक शब्‍द भी नहीं कहना है।''

''और फिर भी, वे हमारी सबसे मुखर प्रशंसक हैं और अभी भी हमारी सबसे शक्तिशाली प्रशंसक हैं। हमारी स्‍वामी समूह की तरफ से, किंग्‍स और पूरे किंग्‍स परिवार की तरफ से, 'हम आपको प्‍यार करते हैं, और आपको मुबारकवाद देते हैं, यह दिन हमारे लिए एक महान दिन है।'''

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