Like the SKDT on Facebook and Win!

It’s hard to believe only a little more than three months ago the final buzzer went off at ARCO Arena ending the 2009-10 season. From the “NBA’s Greatest Draft Lottery Party” to the more recent Sacramento Kings Dance Team auditions at the California State Fair, the offseason is flying by with exciting events in the Sacramento-area community.

Last week the 2010-11 SKDT was announced, and I am delighted to return for a fifth season on the team. Along with nine returning veterans, we have six new dance team members. The 15 members who make up the SKDT are a highly-talented and beautiful group of young women. We’re excited to raise expectations this year by leaving fans impressed with our superior dancing and impactful involvement in the community.

Dance team practice started the day after auditions, and along with rehearsing routines, we’ve been busy signing our contracts, receiving public relations training, getting to know each other and taking photos for Kings.com’s SKDT Central. Our new members are handling the busy schedule effortlessly, which is great considering our schedule grows dramatically throughout the season.

This past weekend, Jenn, Lisa and I attended Pro Action Dance Intensive in Las Vegas, Nev. We joined professional dance teams from across the nation to learn routines from world-renowned choreographers. The camp is a way for pro dance teams to obtain new choreography and to interact with other dance team members. I had an incredible time at the camp, and enjoyed spending quality time with Jenn and Lisa. It was inspiring to be surrounded by other dancers who share the same passion for dance and sports.

After our weekend of intensive dancing we returned to practice Monday night and taught the rest of the SKDT the new routines we learned at camp. Before practice started, however, Jenn, who’s the dance team manager, announced to the team that Lisa and I would be co-captains for the upcoming season! I’m honored and thrilled to be joining Lisa as a leader on this year’s team. Before joining the SKDT, Lisa and I danced together for four years while attending Chico State University. We are great friends and have varying strengths that will help lead the team throughout the season… I love when little things in life fall into place that make you appreciate friendships you have and experiences you’ve encountered.

This season the SKDT bloggers will consist of new members Nicole and Michelle along with Lisa and me. Michelle and Nicole will provide insight into what it’s like to be new members of the SKDT and share entertaining dance team stories. Lisa and I hope to shed light on what it’s like to be co-captains, announce dance team news and more.

If you have any blog ideas, questions or comments, please feel free to leave them below. As always, for unique real-time dance team updates and pictures follow us on Twitter @SKDT!

Are you a fan of the dance team? Please show and share your support for the SKDT by “Liking” us on Facebook.com/SacramentoKingsDanceTeam. Now through 12 p.m. PDT on Thursday, Aug. 6., we’ll be giving away 10 SKDT swimsuit calendars to Kings fans who comment on our wall and posts!

We can’t wait to hear from you, and look forward to sharing our perspective on the upcoming 2010-11 season with Kings fans everywhere.

Please Read: Official rules for Sacramento Kings giveaways

Casspi Continues to Carry a Nation

Tyreke Evans isn’t the only member of the Sacramento Kings hoping to make an impact for his country this offseason. Across the Atlantic, Omri Casspi is making waves playing for the Israeli national team leading up to Eurobasket qualifications.

Although the Israeli national team did not qualify for the World Championships this August in Istanbul, Turkey, it still has a chance to qualify for next year’s Eurobasket tournament in Lithuania. In August, the team will compete in a qualifying round consisting of 15 teams with each group winner and the two second-best placed teams qualifying for the Eurobasket 2011 Tournament.

Israel is in Group A, competing with the national teams of Finland, Italy, Latvia and Montenegro for a berth into next year’s tournament. With its only medal being silver in 1979, after losing to the then-Soviet Union, Israel is looking to win its first gold in the tournament’s 75-year history. Although success has eluded Israel in Eurobasket history, if Casspi’s on-court demeanor is any indicator of the team’s mental focus they won’t lack confidence going into qualifications.

In the three practice games leading up to the tip-off in Kaunas, Lithuania, Casspi has turned in strong all-around performances. Check out his stats from the previous three practice games:

vs. Belgium: 24 points, 6 rebounds (Win 79 – 55)
vs. Holland: 17 points, 5 rebounds (Win 96 – 83)
vs. Britain: 27 points, 5 blocks (Win 86 – 82)

Stay current with Kings.com throughout August to track Casspi and Israel’s journey and hopeful Eurobasket 2011 berth.

More Casspi Coverage

Israel’s Game Schedule:

8/2/2010 – Israel vs Italy
8/8/2010 – Latvia vs Israel
8/11/2010 – Israel vs Finland
8/14/2010 – Montenegro vs Israel
8/17/2010 – Italy vs Israel
8/23/2010 – Israel vs Latvia
8/26/2010 – Finland vs Israel
8/29/2010 – Israel vs Montenegro

For more Israeli team news, go here - Israel Team Page on FIBAEurope.com

To keep up with Omri’s game stats and scores, go here -Scoreboard for Qualifying Round

Hassan’s Valuable Timeout with Children

NBA rookies often learn important lessons during their first year in the League. None more meaningful than the one Sacramento Kings rookie Hassan Whiteside learned on Thursday.

Teaming up with former Kings forward and Sacramento native Matt Barnes, Whiteside had his first lesson in giving back to those who need it most.

The Kings center-forward joined the former Del Campo High School standout to visit children and their families at the Children’s Center on the Sutter Memorial Hospital campus in downtown Sacramento. They met and hung out with youth who are undergoing treatment for cancer.

Barnes, whose mother lost her battle with cancer in 2007, invited the Kings rookie to the special hospital visit after hearing he had just settled into his new Sacramento-area home. The NBA veteran founded the Athletes vs. Cancer Foundation to create awareness, provide screening opportunities and deliver subsequent support to cancer patients.

The Foundation has recruited current and former professional sports figures such as Boston Celtics guard Nate Robinson, Orlando Magic guards Jason Williams and Vince Carter, Phoenix Suns head coach Alvin Gentry, New England Patriots wide receiver Randy Moss and former Kings center Scot Pollard.

Offensive schemes and rebounding strategies may be on the horizon for “Young Whiteside,” but his first experience as a professional among children who look up to him may be a lesson he’ll cherish forever.

PIX: Hassan’s Children’s Hospital Visit

For more information on the Athletes vs. Cancer Foundation, please visit:
www.athletesvscancer.org
www.facebook.com/athletesvscancer
www.Twitter.com/athletesvscancer

Updated: Meet the 2010-11 SKDT

Dancers from around the U.S. showed up at the California State Fair on Sunday in hopes to prove they had what it takes to earn a place on the 2010-11 Sacramento Kings Dance Team.

After Day One of auditions, the nearly 100 dancers were cut to 29 finalists who earned a trip to the final day of auditions at ARCO Arena on Monday.

Watch: 2010-11 SKDT Auditions.

By putting their personalities and dance moves on display — participating in an on-camera interview and performing dance techniques, including across-the-floor combinations and hip-hop and jazz routines — Day Two tested the varying roles a SKDT member plays in the community and on the court.

After an extensive day of dancer evaluations, the casting directors — Maloof Sports & Entertainment Director of Entertainment Tom Vannucci, SKDT Manager Jenn Santich and choreographers Stephanie and Dustin — narrowed the field of dancers to 15. Those dancers now make up the 2010-11 Sacramento Kings Dance Team.

Dance team members include:

Danielle – 1st season on the SKDT
Michelle – 1st season on the SKDT
Nicole – 1st season on the SKDT
Brittney – 1st season on the SKDT
Arielle – 1st season on the SKDT
Katerina – 1st season on the SKDT
Sasha – 2nd season the SKDT
Kelly – 3rd season on the SKDT
Lauren – 3rd season on the SKDT
Laura – 3rd season on the SKDT
Gina – 3rd season on the SKDT
Heather – 3rd season on the SKDT
Carly – 3rd season on the SKDT
Lisa – 4th season on the SKDT
Katie – 5th season on the SKDT

Updated: Watch - Meet the 2010-11 Sacramento Kings Dance Team.

For complete SKDT coverage, including exclusive NEW dance team pictures and bios, stay current with Kings.com/skdt1011.

DeMarcus Named Rookie of the Month!

DeMarcus Cousins set out to prove himself as the top player in Las Vegas Summer League.

On Sunday night, his determination and dynamic all-around play in the desert earned him the NBA’s Rookie of the Month award and a place on the All-Tournament team.

Despite being relentlessly double-teamed, Cousins concluded the Kings six-game slate in Vegas averaging 14.5 points, 9.8 rebounds, 1.8 assists, 1.5 steals and 1.2 blocks.

After being selected by the Kings with the fifth-overall pick in the 2010 NBA Draft less than a month ago, Cousins has quickly proved to be an engaging player in the community and a versatile big man on the court.

Throughout the week, Cousins’ play showed why analysts have included his name among the likes of Chris Webber, Karl Malone, Tim Duncan, Shaquille O’Neal and others. Despite growing up in a generation where basketball has flourished with superstars, Cousins has repeatedly stated his game is unique, and he strives for greatness by adding pieces of other All-Star players’ games to his own.

Along with showing off his deft handles, incredible vision, silky shooting touch and unyielding rebounding ability, Cousins displayed the confidence and desire to call for the ball and convert a game-deciding bucket, like he did against the Timberwolves on Wednesday – two innate qualities of a star.

Though it was just a taste of what’s in store for Sacramento, the last seven days of Kings basketball have been a joy to watch, particularly the first four games in which Cousins completely dominated the opposition. Most importantly, the Kings young center led the team to a winning, 4-2, record.

“I’m excited about DeMarcus, I’m excited about Hassan (Whiteside),” Kings Summer League team coach Mario Elie said after the team’s final game. “We have a bright future in Sacramento.”

“Swat” Whiteside, as Cousins has christened him, concluded his first gamut of Kings games averaging 6.8 points, 5.0 rebounds and 2.3 blocks. The Kings center-forward demonstrated an uncanny ability to block shots, showed off a nice jump shot and improved with every outing.

Donté Greene finished summer league averaging 13.2 points, 2.6 rebounds and 1.6 assists. Greene demonstrated leadership, strong defense and shooting proficiency — 46.2 percent from the field and 42.9 percent from three-point range.

Omri Casspi completed his week averaging 14.0 points, 4.4 rebounds and 0.6 assists. He saved his best game for the Bulls, where he led the team to a 17-point comeback victory and made multiple clutch plays. Along with showing leadership qualities, like Greene, Casspi also shot well – 48.9 percent from the field and 43.8 percent from three-point range.

Watch – Kings-Mavs Postgame Reaction: Coach Elie and DeMarcus Cousins.

Kings Notes

While many of the team’s talented, young players embrace a short break before returning to the gym to prepare for October’s training camp, Kings Rookie of the Year Tyreke Evans tips-off Team USA training camp this week. Leading up to the camp, Evans has been in Vegas working out twice daily as well as supporting his teammates on the bench at each of Sacramento’s summer league games. Stay current with Kings.com for additional Evans coverage.

Complete Vegas Summer League Highlights

Watch — Kings-Pistons.

Watch — Kings-Lakers.

Watch — Kings-Timberwolves.

Watch — Kings-Raptors.

Watch — Kings-Bulls.

Watch — Kings-Mavericks.

Kings on the Web

ESPN.com: Kings Looking to Better Future

HowtoWatchSports.com: The Search for a New Favorite Team: The Sacramento Kings?

Worth Another Look

Watch — “Boogie Fever” Hits Sacramento.

Two Questions for Kings Fans

What did you take away from the Kings Vegas Summer League performance?

Which Kings Summer League team invitees would you like to see back in Sacramento for training camp in the fall?

Boogie Bounces Wolves with Game-Winner!

DeMarcus Cousins is putting the NBA on notice.

Wednesday night, with the Kings trailing by one and time winding down, Cousins iced the Timberwolves with a pretty jump hook from the left block with 2.8 seconds left in regulation to give the team the go-ahead 79-78 victory.

“It’s a big-time play and it got the team the W,” Kings veteran forward-center Jason Thompson, who arrived in town before tip-off to support his brother and young teammates, said afterward.

Watch – Cousins’ Game-Winner.

Sure, it’s summer league, but by notching three straight double-doubles and leading the team to victories on three consecutive nights, the Kings rookie big man is showing the League he’s serious about aiding his teammates in putting Sacramento back on the map.

After his latest stat-stuffing performance — 22 points, 12 rebounds, five assists, four steals and one blocked shot – Cousins summed up his scintillating Vegas Summer League showing to-date simply.

“I’m just doing what I do and having fun doing it,” he said smiling.

For his latest demonstration of uncanny confidence and versatility, Cousins chose to silence the Wolves with a move he’d been struggling with of late.

“They’ve been getting on me about my hook shot every day, telling me I’m not jumping high enough, and basically I’m not getting any lift on my hook,” Cousins said with a shrug. “So, I actually did the move the correct way and knocked the shot down.”

Along with his latest boogie-worthy outing, the Kings proved yet again they’re dedicated to winning in Vegas together.

Donté Greene recorded 13 points, three assists and three rebounds, while his fellow forward teammate Omri Casspi stepped up to contribute 13 points, four rebounds and one steal. In his first summer league start, Tyrese Rice added 10 points, five assists and four rebounds, while Hassan Whiteside notched six points and seven rebounds in his third consecutive start. Though he’s drawing a lion’s share of the attention, Cousins like Tyreke Evans before him, continues to deflect the applause and lauds his teammates’ production.

“Donté’s been producing, Omri’s been producing, the guards – everybody’s putting in effort to help us win,” Cousins said humbly. “It was just a good team win tonight.”

By winning in three different fashions – a blow out, a strong second-half finish and a nail biter – with varying lineups, Kings Summer League team coach Mario Elie echoes Cousins’ sentiment and adds his appreciation for the Summer League team invitees who’s minutes have alternated each contest.

“We have good kids on this team,” he said. “It’s tough for me each game to play a certain guy. The good thing about our squad is these guys are ready to play. So, next game I’m going to go with Sylven (Landesberg) and maybe give Lee (Cummard) and Connor (Atchley) some more minutes, and these guys have been real respectful of that. I like their patience. They understand our veterans and our rookies have to play, and all the guys when their number is called, they’re ready — it’s a great squad I have.”

Watch – Kings-Wolves Highlights.

Heading into the Kings lone summer league off-day, Cousins is averaging 18.3 points, 11.3 rebounds, three assists, two steals and one block per game in less than 31 minutes of action. Sacramento’s 3-0 record is currently only matched by its next opponent, the Toronto Raptors.

In order to keep the Kings rolling through Vegas, Cousins says it’s a matter of keeping their team principles in place.

“Just stick together, keep playing smart ball, playing team basketball, making that extra pass and just playing some tough defense,” he said.

Catch the Kings-Raptors contest from COX Pavilion on Friday at 3 p.m. PDT on NBATV and NBA.com Broadband.

Watch – Kings-Wolves Postgame: Coach Elie and DeMarcus Cousins.

Watch – Kings-Wolves Postgame: Tyreke Evans and Jason Thompson.

Stats – Kings-Wolves Box Score.

Tyreke Touts Cousins’ Knack for the Game

“He’s shown me a lot,” Tyreke Evans, who’s training twice a day in Vegas in preparation for USA training camp, which begins on Monday, said. “He’s shown me he can take his time in the post. He’s a kid who wants to score and get rebounds. He has an all-around game — that’s what I like about him.”

LeBron James and Jonny Flynn Praise DMC, Too

“Give me John Wall or DeMarcus Cousins for ROY this year. Them young cats been balling in Summer League,” the Heat’s new No. 6 tweeted after the game.

“DeMarcus Cousins is really good. Very impressive,” the Wolves’ point guard tweeted.

Media Members Also Wowed by Kings Rookie

“When Cousins goes glass, the ball just finds him. That’s talent,” ESPN.com’s David Thorpe tweeted.

NBA.com Rankings: Cousins Snatches Top Spot on Rookie Ladder.

ESPN.com Daily Dime: Cousins Continues to Dominate.

What’s impressed you most about the Kings No. 15’s Vegas Summer League play? Please share your thoughts on DeMarcus Cousins in the comments below.

For continued Vegas Summer League coverage, stay current with Kings.com/SL10.

DeMarcus Doubles Up as Kings Defeat LA

DeMarcus Cousins is two-for-two.

He’s helped guide the team to back-to-back wins and he’s posted consecutive double-doubles.

“I feel great,” Cousins, after tallying 19 points and 12 rebounds, said. “I’m just taking small steps each day, trying to improve each day — each game trying to get better at what I didn’t do (well) the previous game.”

Along with greater point and rebound numbers from his first outing –14 and 10, respectively — the Kentucky product displayed his defensive versatility by blocking two shots, grabbing two steals and limiting the Lakers’ Derrick Caracter (14 points) to just four points in the second half. The playmaking rookie also wowed the crowd by no-look passing his way to three assists.

“He’s a double-double machine,” Kings Summer League team coach Mario Elie said afterward. “It’s sad they have to double him in the summer. I can imagine just how many points he could score if they played him one-on-one. He scored 19 tonight and 14 the other night, with people doubling him on the catch. You have to give credit to him.”

Along with Cousins’ stellar play, Donté Greene had another strong showing. Coming off the bench, Greene scored 17 points in 16 minutes and contributed three rebounds, two assists and one steal.

“Donté I’ve been really impressed with,” Elie said. “He’s been really patient with his offense. Donté’s taken one or two bad fadeaway threes, but for the most part he’s been playing some solid basketball for us – making plays (for others) as well as making plays for himself.”

With Greene and Cousins putting Lakers defenders on their heels, summer league invitees Sylven Landesberg, Devan Downey and Wayne Chism were able to find their rhythm Tuesday night at the Thomas & Mack Center.

In his first start, Landesberg scored 13 points and brought down four rebounds. Downey scored 11 points, handed out five assists and nabbed three steals, while displaying his impressive speed and quickness. Chism, meanwhile, scored 13 points on 6-of-7 shooting from the field.

“We just have to continue to play aggressive and share the ball like we have been,” Landesberg, who’s mom Ingrid was in the stands cheering for her son, said. “I think our defense has played (strong). I think we slacked off a little bit, which is why the game was a little bit closer. On the defensive end if we keep playing hard, and on the offensive end we keep sharing the ball, I think we’ll keep going on this road we’re going on.”

Next up on the team’s Vegas Summer League slate is a bout with the Minnesota Timberwolves and the fourth-overall pick in the 2010 NBA Draft Wesley Johnson. The Western Conference foes tip-off at 7:30 p.m. PDT at COX Pavilion. Catch the action live on Sports 1140 KHTK, NBATV or NBA.com Broadband.

Watch – Kings-Lakers Highlights.

Watch – Kings-Lakers Postgame: Coach Elie.

Watch – Kings-Lakers Postgame: DeMarcus Cousins.

Watch – Kings-Lakers Postgame: Sylven Landesberg.

Stats: Kings-Lakers Box Score.

Kings Notes

Thanks to Kevin Sherrets, Jason Ross and the Kings Radio crew, we’re also able to provide the following audio interviews with Kings co-owner Joe Maloof, who discusses his excitement about the Kings future and DeMarcus Cousins, Kings head coach Paul Westphal, who talks about the contrasting games of Cousins and Hassan Whiteside, and forward Carl Landry, who shares his thoughts on summer league, Sacramento’s new-look team and much more.





Listen to Joe Maloof:

Listen to Gavin on KHTK:

Listen to Coach Westphal:

Listen to Coach Westphal:

Listen to Carl Landry:

Listen to Carl Landry:

Wall Talks Cousins

Washington Wizards’ John Wall has attended both of his former Kentucky Wildcats teammate’s games. Check out what he had to say about Cousins’ summer league debut and what’s in store for Kings fans.

“He played well. (Monday), he really showed his face-up game. He faced up and put the ball on the floor. I already knew he was a skilled big man. He showed he can pass. He did a great job of just focusing and playing, and he showed me a monster dunk I haven’t seen in a while.”

For additional Kings coverage from Vegas Summer League, check out Kings.com/SL10.

DMC, Kings Dominant in Vegas Debut

DeMarcus Cousins’ all-around play stole the headline and Hassan Whiteside’s shot-blocking almost stole the show, but the Kings near 30-point Vegas Summer League win, 97-68, over the Pistons on Monday at COX Pavilion was a complete team victory.

“All the players went out there and played hard and played unselfishly,” Kings Summer League team coach Mario Elie said afterward. “Usually when you come to a summer league, guys are looking for their own offense, but we have the #5 pick in the Draft, who’s a willing passer, and I thought (he) rubbed off on the rest (of the team).

“I thought our veterans – Omri Casspi and Donté (Greene) – led the way with their leadership and play out there. It was good seeing the guys on the bench encouraging the guys on the floor. It was a total team effort.”

The Kings started strong and never looked back as their 48-31 halftime lead quickly swelled to more than 30 points just minutes into the second half.

“We had a great week of practice,” Ryan Thompson, who started and scored 12 points on 4-of-5 shooting from the field, said. “We’re playing with a great group of guys. Everybody was having fun playing with each other. Cousins is great – he’s unselfish. Everyone was playing him tough and he was getting us open shots. It was a great opportunity to play with these guys.”

Cousins finished with 14 points and 10 rebounds, and while his teammates lauded his unselfishness, it was his powerful second-quarter dunk over three defenders that received the strongest reaction from the capacity crowd.

Watch – Kings-Pistons Highlights.

Fellow rookie Hassan Whiteside also made a strong debut. The Kings forward-center finished with five points, five rebounds and most impressively five blocks.

“Hassan, I mean, you saw it,” Cousins said shaking his head. “That’s aka Swat right there. (Having) him on the boards makes it a lot easier (for the rest of us). He’s an incredible player. He goes and gets it.”

Heading into his professional debut, Cousins admitted he was “very nervous,” but he quickly found his rhythm. Despite the attention he drew from the sizeable media crowd afterwards, the Kings No. 15 deflected praise and applauded his team’s unity.

“We came in the huddle and said we weren’t going to try and have a one-man show,” Cousins said. “We were going to play team basketball – share the basketball – and that’s what we did.”

The Kings shot 50 percent from the field, while limiting the formerly-undefeated Pistons summer league team to 36 percent shooting from the field. A big reason for the Kings defensive success, according to Elie, was the lock-down play of Thompson.

“Ryan Thompson is terrific,” Elie said. “He’s a good glue player out there. (He) doesn’t demand the ball (and) you don’t notice him out there, but true basketball fans who watch the game notice what he does out there.

“He guarded the best player. He shut down Austin Daye, who was averaging 20 (points) in the summer league. He can run the offense, (and) he made some plays for us when we were a little stagnant in our offense.”

Along with the significant contributions made by Thompson, Cousins and Whiteside, Greene added 11 points and two blocks. Casspi, meanwhile, added 16 points and five rebounds, while Tyrese Rice came off the bench to contribute 15 points.

Thanks to Cousins’ post presence, the Kings held a 46-26 scoring advantage in the paint.

Watch – Kings-Pistons Postgame: Coach Elie.

Watch – Kings-Pistons Postgame: Coach Westphal.

Watch – Kings-Pistons Postgame: DeMarcus Cousins.

Watch – Kings-Pistons Postgame: Hassan Whiteside.

Watch – Kings-Pistons Postgame: Ryan Thompson.

Stats: Kings-Pistons Box Score.

Kings Notes

Kings point guard Tyreke Evans and forward Carl Landry sat on the end of the Kings bench. Throughout the game, each player shared encouragement and advice with Sacramento’s Summer League team.

Despite Donté Greene taking a hit to the nose, which led to him sporting No. 8 for much of the game due to blood on his No. 20 jersey, the Kings fun-loving forward held an autograph session for fans at COX Pavilion after the game.

Miss some of the Kings-Pistons action? Check out the Kings.com Live Blog replay for a unique recap of the game, and join us for the next Kings contest and live blog as Sacramento takes on the Los Angeles Lakers at 5:30 p.m. on Tuesday.

Check out Kings.com/SL10 for additional Vegas Summer League coverage.

Kings Wrap Mini Camp, Head to Vegas

“Now, it’s gametime.”

That’s the sentiment Kings Summer League team coach Mario Elie shared after the team concluded mini camp Sunday. After three days and five productive practices, the Kings and their prized rookie big man head to Las Vegas for a six-game set in the desert.

“Again, DeMarcus was out there doing his thing,” Elie said of Cousins’ performance at the team’s last mini camp practice. “He played well today…

“All the chitter-chatter, all the practices — we’re all tired of beating each other up. We’re all excited to be up on some other people, so it’s fun that we start playing tomorrow.”

Heading into the busy week and first game against the Detroit Pistons, Elie said he plans to alternate the games in which he plays Omri Casspi and Donté Greene extended minutes.

“Starting tomorrow, I’ll probably play Donté quite a bit at the three, maybe play Omri 15 minutes,” Elie said. “Then, we’ll start Omri the next game and play him a lot of minutes. Then, come back to Donté’s time, (etc.).”

Along with alternating the on-court time of the Kings young veterans, Elie plans to give Cousins and Hassan Whiteside big minutes. With the impressive play of some of the Kings Summer League team invitees, the Kings coaching staff also plans to give a number of them a serious look.

“We have some really good players who’ve really surprised us throughout the camp — guys making shots, making plays,” Elie, before the team took off for Vegas at 4 p.m. Sunday, said. “Connor Atchley came in and, I think, did a good job. Ryan Thompson is playing well. Dionte Christmas, (Tyrese) Rice – we have a lot of guys we really want to take a good look at.”

When Elie was asked what aspects of Jason Thompson’s younger brother’s game stood out, he said the brothers’ contrasting characteristics could combine for a tremendous talent.

“JT got the body and Ryan got the brains,” Elie quipped. “So, that’s the issue with (them). If Ryan had JT’s body, he’d be a (star) player! Hopefully JT will listen to his younger brother a little more.”

Before joking about the Thompsons, the Kings Summer League team coach discussed another player who’s stood out in mini camp — Donald Sloan. The Texas A&M product was recently signed to a Kings rookie contract.

“Donald is solid,” Elie said. “I think Donald has to get comfortable playing the point and being a vocal leader. At the point guard position you really have to be vocal and put guys in their position, and I told him about it before the camp.

“He’s doing well, but I think he’ll do better. He’s a quiet, reserved guy. Donald’s low maintenance — he’ll go out there and play 150 percent — but in order to run a point guard position in the NBA you have to make sure you communicate with your teammates and get them in the right position.”

Though he missed the Saturday morning session due to a cracked tooth, Cousins has shown no signs of hesitancy on the court. According to Elie, Cousins’ swagger remains.

“He’s excited about it,” Elie said of Cousins’ potential matchup with the Pistons’ rookie center Greg Monroe. “I’ve been messing with him about it — ‘They’re talking about you two being the best big men, it’s going to be interesting to see…’ He said, ‘Coach, we’re going to see.”

“I told him I’m going to give him a lot of touches tomorrow, so it’s going to be interesting to see how he goes against Monroe.”

Watch – Coach Elie: Mini Camp Day Three.

Watch – Donté Greene: Mini Camp Day Three.

Like Cousins, Wayne Chism (abdominal strain) returned to practice on Saturday night and participated in Sunday’s run.

Catch Monday’s Kings-Pistons contest at 3 p.m. PDT at COX Pavilion on NBATV or online at NBA.com.

Kings.com will be going all access from Las Vegas, so if you have a question for the Kings Summer League team, please leave your questions in the comments below or @ replay to @SacramentoKings on Twitter for the opportunity to have it answered in a Full Court Press blog or Kings.com video.

As always, stay current with Kings.com/SL10 for complete coverage. Be sure to check out the Kings.com in-game live blog on Monday for exclusive insight from the team’s first Vegas tilt.

Updated: Summer League Invitees Shine in Day Two

While the star of Friday’s first practice, DeMarcus Cousins, was limited to the elliptical machine on Saturday, Kings Summer League team invitees, making up the white team, rose to the challenge of limiting the black team and its young NBA veterans.

Cousins was ruled out of Saturday’s morning practice after he had to take a morning trip to the dentist to repair a tooth, which was injured as a result of an inadvertent Steven Hill elbow to Cousins’ jaw late in Friday’s second practice. So, with the black team — Donté Greene, Omri Casspi, Hassan Whiteside, Donald Sloan and Devan Downey — missing their go-to big man, the white team – Sylven Landesberg, Lee Cummard, Steven Hill, Dionte Christmas and Tyrese Rice – took advantage.

“Yesterday they beat up on us a little, so we wanted to come in and get back at them a little bit,” Landesberg said smiling. “So, we definitely had a chip on our shoulders today.”

Landesberg, who wears No. 55 for the Kings Summer League team, was among the players who stood out during the scrimmage, according to Coach Mario Elie.

“Sylven Landesberg, from Virginia, I thought had a great day today,” Elie said. “Rice…just a feisty little guy, I thought he had a great day today, and Lee, the guy from BYU, just knows how to play, so that white team sort of had a game plan. The black team got down, got a little frustrated, but that’s how it goes in (mini camp). The good thing about (mini camp) is you have another (practice) tonight to prove yourself, so it will be interesting to see how the black team responds.”

For Landsberg and his Kings Summer League teammates who don’t have NBA regular season contracts, they’re in the midst of interviewing for a job in professional basketball. Although some players may feel anxiety or pressure given their situation, the playmaking guard is optimistic and thankful for the opportunity.

“I’m just excited,” he said. “I’m playing basketball. I’m doing the thing I love – a lot of people can’t say that. I’m not on the roster, yet. I’m still fighting for a spot.”

Though the determined group of NBA hopefuls tripped up Greene and Casspi’s team, Elie has seen both players step up as leaders. The Kings Summer League team coach also sees the upcoming week as an opportunity for both forwards to work on their post games.

“They’re talking to guys, making plays out there,” Elie said. “They made a couple of great plays looking for each other.

“I would like to see Omri on the post a little bit more… I’m really going to make an emphasis to talk to my point guard — if Omri or Donté are down their on the box, let’s give them a look because those are weaknesses they need to work on.”

The Kings resume mini camp Saturday night and a familiar face is expected to make another guest appearance. Rookie of the Year award-winner Tyreke Evans participated in Friday night’s practice and ran the point with confidence and flare.

“He adds a nice little spice out there,” Elie said grinning. “Tyeke (went) out there and he got to the basket anytime he wanted, like during the season. So, it’s a good challenge for our guys who are trying out for our squad to see a guy like him — Rookie of the Year, 20-5-5 guy, and a guy who’s a future star in this league. Tonight’s going to be a lot more fun because the officials will be here and there will be a lot more playing.”

Watch - Coach Elie: Mini Camp Day Two.

Watch - Sylven Landesberg: Mini Camp Day Two.

Despite missing the morning practice after getting his cracked tooth repaired, Cousins will practice Saturday night. Wayne Chism was out of Saturday morning’s practice due to an abdominal strain. Coach Elie is hopeful Chism will be able to play in the night session.

The Kings wrap up mini camp with a late morning practice on Sunday before heading to Las Vegas.

Stay current with Kings.com/SL10 for complete mini camp and Vegas Summer League coverage.

Reminder: Join us for the Kings Quarter Season Pass Launch Party at “Kings On L” today from 5-10 p.m. Kings players Donté Greene, Omri Casspi, DeMarcus Cousins and Hassan Whiteside will stop by from 8-8:30 p.m. Midtown vendors Buckhorn Grill, Yogurtagogo and The L Wine Lounge will be providing FREE food for a limited time. To learn more about the Kings Quarter Season Pass, which includes the new LeBron Pass, and the Launch Party, check out: Kings.com/quarterseason

UPDATED: The Kings announced the team has released forward Jason Ellis, center Steven Hill and forward Tyren Johnson. Sacramento’s Summer League roster now stands at 13 players.

Kings Tip-Off Mini Camp

In his first official Kings practice at mini camp on Friday, Sacramento’s new No. 15 impressed.

“This guy rebounded and went full court and dunked it,” Kings Summer League Coach Mario Elie said of DeMarcus Cousins. “A lot of guys at 6-foot-11 can’t do that at his weight — it was fun watching him today.”

According to Elie, Kings fans can expect a lot more from Cousins in the coming week as the Kings head to Las Vegas for NBA Summer League.

“I really want to get a good look at DeMarcus,” Elie continued. “We will feature him on the box even though he’s a good face-up player.”

While many players utilize a go-to move, Cousins stated after the morning practice his favorite move is “whatever the defense gives me,” so wherever his offensive talent is focused next week, the Kings rookie is up to the challenge.

“I’m going to be (the team’s) post presence and they’re going to be going to me a lot,” Cousins said. “They’re helping me with the double-teams and all that. They’re just preparing me basically to be the go-to man this summer league.”

Being a focal point of the team’s offense is a role Cousins relishes. As he stated on the day he was introduced to the Sacramento community and reiterated on Friday, the Kings rookie’s goals are to lead the Summer League team to a 6-0 record and demonstrate why he believes he is the best player taken in the 2010 NBA Draft.

Mini camp and the ensuing summer league also provide Kings second-round draft pick Hassan Whiteside an opportunity to show why so many analysts pegged him as a first-round pick. Additionally, the week in Vegas gives young veterans Omri Casspi and Donté Greene a chance to showcase how their respective games have matured, while potentially solidifying the Kings small forward position.

“I’m very excited about the team we have,” Elie, inside the Kings practice facility, said. “Whiteside also did some good things today – getting some rebounds in traffic, blocking some shots. Omri looked a lot stronger and was finishing better at the basket. Donté (was) making great plays off the dribble, so I’m real excited about our guys coming back.”

“It’s good for Omri and Donté to get some extra work. Our three spot seemed to be our question mark, so hopefully one of those two guys can step up this year.”

Coming off of five weeks of training in Vegas, Casspi is ready to seize the opportunity in front of him.

“I had good preparation, a month and a week in Vegas working out with Joe Abunasser and the guys who work out there,” Casspi said. “I’m coming in in good shape, and I lifted a lot. I feel I’m in very good shape now, and I’m excited to be back in Sacramento. I’m excited for the new team – the two new guys and Samuel Dalembert. I think summer league is going to be important to me to get in a rhythm and to show the coaches I worked hard during the summer, and that’s my goal now.”

With two practices on Friday and Saturday and a final practice on Sunday, mini camp gives Elie and the Kings a chance to implement the team’s offense and defense so everyone is on the same page for their upcoming six games in seven days.

“(The goal of mini camp is to) get an assembly of our offense, so we don’t go out there looking all crazy, some defensive principles – we have a pretty intelligent group,” Elie said. “These guys are picking it up very quickly. They know what’s at stake. They’re here. We have roster spots so they know we’re one of the teams, if they have a good showing, they may get invited to training camp.”

Check out what Elie, Cousins and Casspi had to say after the team’s first mini-camp practice in the following videos. Plus, get a behind-the-scenes look at the Kings in action at mini camp and Jerry Reynolds’ analysis on Whiteside and Cousins in “Jerry’s Take: Summer League Part Two.”

Watch - Coach Elie: Mini Camp Day One.

Watch – DeMarcus Cousins: Mini Camp Day One.

Watch – Omri Casspi: Mini Camp Day One.

Watch – Jerry’s Take: Summer League Part Two (features mini-camp practice footage).

Stay current with Kings.com/SL10 for complete Vegas Summer League coverage, which will soon include a photo roster for fans to get to know more about each of the 16 players on the Kings Summer League team.

Jerry’s Take on Kings Summer League

In anticipation of the Kings tipping off their three-day mini camp on Friday to prepare for their six-game Vegas Summer League set, Kings.com caught up with Kings Director of Player Personnel Jerry Reynolds to give Kings fans exclusive insight on the Kings Summer League team, Sacramento’s rookies, the Kings young veterans and Tyreke Evans.

In the first of a four-part video blog series, Reynolds discusses how the Kings Summer League team was formed, some of the unsigned free agents who are on the team and more. Plus, the Kings TV broadcaster answers a fan question from the Kings official Twitter @SacramentoKings.

Watch – Jerry’s Take: Summer League 2010 Part One.

Stay tuned for Reynolds’ analysis on DeMarcus Cousins and Hassan Whiteside in Part Two. In the third part of the summer league series, the Kings Director of Player Personnel will discuss what to look for from Omri Casspi and Donté Greene in Las Vegas. In the final installment, “Jerry’s Take” looks at the Kings Rookie of the Year and the impact his participation in Team USA training camp will have on Evans and the Kings.

For complete Kings mini camp and Vegas Summer League coverage, stay current with Kings.com/SL10.

New Rookies, Returning Fan-Favorites Highlight Summer League Roster

New rookies DeMarcus Cousins and Hassan Whitesite along with returning fan-favorites Omri Casspi and Donté Greene will headline the 2010 Kings Vegas Summer League roster, which was announced on Wednesday.

Kings assistant coach Mario Elie will coach the 16-player team.

Before the Kings take off for their six-games in seven-days set in Las Vegas, they will hold mini camp at the team’s practice facility July 9-11.

In a contest that will showcase Cousins and Detroit’s seventh-overall pick Greg Monroe, Sacramento begins Vegas Summer League play on Monday, July 12, against the Pistons at COX Pavilion.

The team’s first game, featuring the potential rookie big man battle along with three additional Kings tilts, will be broadcast live on NBATV, while all NBA Summer League action will be streamed live online at NBA.com — Learn more.

For complete Kings Vegas Summer League and Kings mini camp coverage, check out: www.Kings.com/SL10.

2010 KINGS VEGAS SUMMER LEAGUE ROSTER
No.	Player	Pos.	Ht.	Wt.	From	NBA Exp.
16	Connor Atchley	F-C	6-10	225	Texas	R
18	Omri Casspi	F	6-9	225	Yavne, Israel	1
22	Dionte Christmas	G	6-5	205	Temple	R
41	Wayne Chism	F	6-9	246	Tennessee	R
15	DeMarcus Cousins	C	6-11	270	Kentucky	R
30	Lee Cummard	G-F	6-7	190	BYU	R
25	Devan Downey	G	5-9	170	South Carolina	R
45	Jason Ellis	F	6-7	200	Boise State	R
20	Donte’ Greene	G-F	6-11	226	Syracuse	2
51	Steven Hill	C	7-0	245	Arkansas	1
31	Tyren Johnson	F	6-8	204	Louisiana-Lafayette	R
55	Sylven Landesberg	G	6-6	207	Virginia	R
9	Tyrese Rice	G	6-1	190	Boston College	R
23	Donald Sloan	G	6-3	205	Texas A&M	R
5	Ryan Thompson	G	6-6	220	Rider	R
33	Hassan Whiteside	C	7-0	235	Marshall	R
SUMMER LEAGUE HEAD COACH:				Mario Elie (College - American International)
HEAD COACH:				Paul Westphal (College - USC)
ASSISTANT COACHES:				Jim Eyen (College - UC-Santa Barbara) Truck Robinson (College - Tennessee State) Shareef Abdur-Rahim (College - California) Pete Carril (College - Lafayette)
ATHLETIC TRAINER:				Pete Youngman (College - Ithaca)
STRENGTH-AND-CONDITIONING COACH:				Daniel Shapiro (College - Seattle Pacific)

2010 KINGS SUMMER LEAGUE SCHEDULE
Day	Date	Opponent	Time	Arena	TV
Monday	July 12	vs. Detroit	3:00 p.m.	COX Pavilion	NBA TV
Tuesday	July 13	vs. LA Lakers	5:30 p.m.	Thomas & Mack Center
Wednesday	July 14	vs. Minnesota	7:30 p.m.	COX Pavilion	NBA TV
Friday	July 16	vs. Toronto	3:00 p.m.	COX Pavilion	NBA TV
Saturday	July 17	vs. Chicago	5:30 p.m.	Thomas & Mack Center
Sunday	July 18	vs. Dallas	5:00 p.m.	COX Pavilion	NBA TV

Which players named to the summer league roster are you looking forward to seeing play?

Which of the Kings six summer league games are you most anticipating?

Let us know your thoughts on the Kings announced roster and Vegas Summer League schedule in the comments below.

Kings Bigs Bring New Relevance to City of Trees

Saturday was a whirlwind for the Kings newest additions, DeMarcus Cousins and Hassasn Whiteside. For both Kings big men, though, it was a dream realized, so they couldn’t help but smile, dance and entertain throughout the day’s events.

Just 24-hours earlier, Sacramento’s newest additions had arrived from New York, wide-eyed with huge grins as they touched down in their new home. The pair that stood nearly 14-feet tall strode down the Sacramento International Airport hallways and into two separate SUV limos headed for the downtown Sacramento Embassy Suites. In the evening, they dined with Geoff Petrie and Coach Westphal. It was their first of many team huddles to come. Given all they had been through in the previous 24 hours, the pair sat at the dinner table, yet to come to terms with their new job.

Later, inside their separate hotel rooms, it finally hit them both as they waited for their initial day in Northern California’s closing – they were NBA players.

Gathered around a table the next afternoon, again with Petrie and Westphal, Cousins, who loves the nickname Boogie and says DMC is a new one to him, and Whiteside, who was bestowed the nickname Young Whiteside by collegians at Marshall, addressed the media at their Kings introductory press conference at ARCO Arena.

During the 15-minute session, which was live streamed to fans around the world on Kings.com, each showed flashes of the confidence and charisma that would be palpable later in the day. Highlighting the event was the revealing of the players’ Kings jersey numbers. Cousins will sport No. 15 – a tribute to one of his favorite players growing up, Carmelo Anthony. Whiteside, meanwhile, chose No. 33 – in honor of the place he was taken in the Draft and a reminder of those who doubt him.

Following their one-offs with local media members, each player joined the team’s official NBA photographer, Rocky Widner, for his Draft photos. From serious to silly and suited to Kings-uniformed, Cousins and Whiteside’s initial rookie duties were in full swing. After the photo-op, each took to the ARCO court call center on press row to chat with a few surprised potential Kings Season Ticket Holders at the Greatest Ticket Sales Extravaganza in Kings History. It was their first interaction with Kings fans, but the day was just beginning to heat up.

At 5 p.m., Cousins and Whiteside stood out in the lobby among their fellow Embassy Suite-goers. Whiteside enjoyed an ice cream bar he hoped would cool him before he endured the near 100-degree heat that awaited him outside. Cousins clutched two phones — one for texting friends, the other serving as his personal soundtrack for the day. With contrasting Kings polos and united smiles, the Kings draft picks literally danced their way onto the SUV limo that would whisk them around town for the evening.

Inside, they were joined by lucky lifetime Kings fans Garrett Patton and Steven Flanagan among others, who had won the opportunity to cruise around Sacramento with the 6-foot-11 and 7-foot standouts, who just a few months earlier were dominating the college ranks. Signing the young fans’ Kings paraphernalia, Cousins admitted he signed his first autograph as an eighth grader, which was the beginning of his much-hyped youth – it was also his first year ever playing organized basketball. Whiteside, who like Cousins comes from a big family (Cousins has five brothers and sisters while Whiteside has six), said he signed his first autograph in 10th grade. Formerly, he wore 21, so signing for Patton and Flanagan, the Kings 7-footer was getting accustomed to adding the #33 to his signature.

En route to the Kings Rookie Rally, Cousins and Whiteside touched on their youth. Whiteside’s most memorable birthday present growing up was a large pepperoni pizza that he received for his 10th birthday — he proudly and promptly ate the entire pie. Before his sophomore year in high school, sick of being put in headlocks by his older siblings, a young Whiteside wrestled and had a gluttony of trophies to prove his wiry wrath in the ring. Cousins, who doesn’t remember what he received for his birthday last year and tried his hands at football, summarized his youth simply – “I played ball, that’s basically it.” In recognition of his unique style, room-filling presence and friendship with rapper Young Dro, Cousins has earned the reputation of having Peter Parker Swag, a reference to Dro as Spiderman on a DJ Coolbreeze mixtape cover.

Peering out of the tinted bus-like windows, the Kings draft picks snuck a peak of the sea of sun-kissed fans at the Sacramento Capitals’ Stadium they were about to greet. Each player beamed as the reality of their dream continued to manifest itself. Petrie introduced his prize picks to the boisterous crowd while Westphal joked the players’ role was to make him look smart. With their new Kings threads on, Cousins and Whiteside exchanged laughs and Kings T-shirt tosses to the crowd. As fans celebrated, the players showed genuine excitement to greet their passionate supporters, regardless of the triple-digit temperatures. Nearby, the on-location Kings Team Store stand sold out of all Cousins gear. On their way back to the air-conditioned SUV, the potential-packed tandem stopped to sign autographs for a legion of fans.

Rolling out of the Roseville mall’s parking lot, Cousins and Whiteside dripped with sweat, but their cheerful disposition remained as they began to discuss an assortment of things. Cousins relayed Washington Wizards’ first-overall pick and former Kentucky Wildcats’ teammate John Wall recommended he get a Twitter account. Using the nickname bestowed upon him by Kentucky assistant coach and former NBA guard Rod Strickland, for his ability to make guard-like moves on the court, Cousins’ official Twitter is now: @boogiecousins. Whiteside just began using the social networking service a week ago, and at the time of the Saturday afternoon Twitter conversation he had just six followers. In a real-time example of how quickly his life has changed in the past week, following a shout out by Cousins and the Kings Twitter accounts, @youngwhiteside is approaching 1,000 people keeping up with his tweets. In his spare time, Whiteside enjoys playing videogames. Although he’s never played online to-date, he plans to and says he’d welcome any fan challengers who “bring it.” Among his favorite games are NBA 2K and God of War.

Like his explanation of growing up in Mobile, Ala., Cousins keeps his off-court life simple — listening to music, which appears to be continuous, and “just having fun.” His playlist includes, another one of his famous friends, Drake, who performed in Lexington, Ky., in April, Lil Wayne and Travis Porter. Although his mom pushed him to play basketball and played herself as a youngster, Cousins insists he taught himself how to play by watching TV. He explains his footwork and uncharacteristic deftness with the ball are results of learning the game from watching Kobe Bryant, Tracy McGrady and Paul Pierce – “I never thought of myself as a big man,” Cousins said.

Walking down the red carpet at Venue, Cousins and Whiteside tower over the Kings VIPs in attendance to welcome the new players to the city. Like the nearby Tower Bridge, Sacramento’s new twin towers stand well above the group inside the posh downtown club. As Whiteside takes a turn on the stage’s spin tables, Whiteside hams it up with everyone entering the exclusive party. With every photo, Cousins ensures each one is unlike the last. From hugs to peace signs to arm-crossing-serious posses, Cousins leaves everyone in attendance with their own first-time meeting story. Despite the day creeping to night, the Kings new No. 15 and No. 33 continued to relish the spotlight and support.

As their first day out in Sacramento came to a close, each had grown more comfortable with their new profession and each had gained a great respect for all Kings fans who, as Cousins and Whiteside would say, ‘showed them a lot of love.’ Sharing an appreciation for dancing whenever they feel like it – on the bus, on the red carpet or walking down the sidewalk — the pair formed their first friend in the NBA — a great sign for an NBA team that’s already lauded for its young team’s chemistry.

Until Kings mini camp begins in Sacramento in July, Whiteside will soak up family time in Lenoir, N.C., where he began playing basketball as a five-year old and promised his mom as a high schooler he would build her a home one day. Cousins, meanwhile, will spend some downtime in Mobile, although not swimming off the Gulf of Mexico, because “there are things in there bigger than you,” getting ready to debut the boogie in the NBA.

While Tyreke Evans restored the swagger in Sacramento last season, Cousins and Whiteside stand confidently and charismatically ready to help him and the Kings take on the tall task of facing the West’s elite and bringing the Playoffs back to the City of Trees.

Kings Picks Produce United Celebration

The Kings, fans and analysts rejoiced in unison on Thursday as Kings President of Basketball Operations Geoff Petrie announced the Kings had selected Kentucky center DeMarcus Cousins with Sacramento’s fifth-overall pick in the 2010 NBA Draft.

Choosing a player praised by the masses is a rarity in sports, and when asked about his choice for the team, Petrie smiled as he relayed the unique range of support.

“This is one of those years when all the planets aligned,” he, outside the Kings Draft war room, said. “The fans wanted DeMarcus, a lot of the media wanted DeMarcus and we all wanted DeMarcus.”

Inside the Kings Draft Party at ARCO Arena, Kings fan @Tina_Colada_81 captured a snippet of the exhilaration fans exuded as the team’s fifth pick was named — watch.

Throughout Sacramento and around the Web, joy was widespread. Fans and even national pundits shared their tweets of support.

“Thank you, Sacramento Kings, for that great pick. We needed a big man,” RaiderSal71 tweeted.

“So thrilled the Sacramento Kings got a bona fide stud in DeMarcus Cousins. It’s an exciting time to be a Kings fan… We’re on the way up!” @dspohn55 tweeted.

“I’m excited the Sacramento Kings took DeMarcus Cousins! He’ll do great next to Tyreke Evans. I’m thinking we have another ROY!” @Bradseph tweeted.

“Great pick for Kings. For a second straight year, the Kings may have the Rookie of the Year,” @chadfordinsider agreed via Twitter.

For Cousins, being selected by the Kings was the culmination of years of hard work and the reality of a dream-come-true.

“It’s a great time in my life right now,” Cousins, on a conference call with Sacramento-area media, said. “This is the day I’ve dreamed about for a long time, and it finally came. It’s the greatest feeling ever.”

“I’m very excited. I get to play with a great guard in Tyreke, and I believe we can do some damage.”

For fans who may not be familiar with his game, Cousins says he’ll add toughness, among other qualities, to Coach Paul Westphal’s talented young team.

“I’m going to bring a physical presence,” he, who led the nation in rebounds per minute last season, said. “I’m going to bring a lot of production. I’m going to come in and try to work my butt off and help my team win.”

With Draft night off to an exciting start, it was hard to believe Petrie and Co. could have more in store for Sacramento, but they did.

After all, the planets had aligned.

With the 33rd pick, the Kings nabbed Marshall forward/center Hassan Whiteside, a player projected by many to be a first-round pick.

As they had reacted with the pick of Cousins, Kings fans were abuzz.

“I’m really liking the direction the Sacramento Kings are going with Cousins and Whiteside,” @bcn_24 tweeted.

“I’m extremely pleased with the Kings Draft. I’m hoping for improved rebounding numbers next season,” Grundyman517 tweeted.

Like the team’s loyal fanbase, Westphal was happy about the way the Draft unfolded.

“This is quite an exciting day for us,” the Kings head coach said. “We got two players we placed a high value on, and we weren’t sure we would get either one of them. We were sweating it out to the end with Whiteside and were really surprised that he lasted that long. His potential is very high.”

Whiteside, who worked out twice for the Kings, had a simple message for his new legion of supporters.

“We’re going to get wins,” he said. “That’s all I plan on doing, just coming in and help win.”

Landing in Sacramento, according to Whiteside, is the perfect place for him on-and-off the court.

“I really like it out there,” he said from New York City. “There’s warm weather, the people are nice out there. The fans are really supportive of the basketball team, so I think it’s the best fit for me.”

With Cousins confident he’s the perfect piece to the Kings puzzle, Whiteside sure Sacramento is ideal for him and the Kings elated with their two new BIG additions, Kings fans can rest easy.

“Going to sleep… So happy to be a Kings fan,” @Aykis16 tweeted.

The 2010 NBA Draft is a wrap, and the Kings are on the rise.

(Please note: Tweets were edited for clarity. Each tweet is linked to its original form.)

Join us for the Kings Rookie Rally
Welcome the Kings new draft picks, DeMarcus Cousins and Hassan Whiteside, to Sacramento on Saturday at 5:30 p.m. at the Kings Rookie Rally prior to the Sacramento Capitals Charity Challenge at Capitals Stadium in Roseville. Learn more — here.

Kings.com 2010 Draft Central
Check out complete coverage of the Kings newest additions, DeMarcus Cousins and Hassan Whiteside, including highlight videos, quotes, pictures, bios and more — here.

2010 Kings Post-Draft Quotes

Kings President of Basketball Operations Geoff Petrie

Opening Statement:
“This is really an exciting day for us overall, taking DeMarcus Cousins with the fifth pick and Hassan Whiteside with the 33rd pick. Sometimes it’s the long and short of it, today was the long and long of it. I think in DeMarcus, we got an exceptional talent at the center position. He’s going to get us great size and skill in that post. He’s an outstanding passer, and we’re just really excited to add him into the frontcourt we have now with Samuel, Carl and Jason. I think we’ve gotten significantly bigger and longer, more talented and more skilled. With Hassan, we had him in here twice for workouts. Great athlete, still needs to learn how to play some and mature a little bit, but he shoots the ball very well, he has an incredible knack for blocking shots off the ball and he’s somebody that we’re really looking forward to working with. So, all in all I think we really added some skill and length and depth to our frontcourt, which is something we’ve been trying to rebuild for the last several years.”

On Cousins’ multiple on-court capabilities:
“I think we had some sense that he could shoot the ball from the perimeter because he did that in high school, and we had seen him in some of the All-Star games, and then there’s tape from those years. We didn’t see him do that at Kentucky because he was primarily in the post all the time. In addition to that, he has quick feet, he has a great feel down on that block and he really is a terrific passer out of there. The workout here was just an individual workout so there was no real competitive playing against anybody, but you could see just even a little bit of having Shareef out there and trying to take different things away from him and how he reacted to that. It certainly didn’t hurt his impression on the workout out here, but we’ve done as much work on him overall as I think we’ve done on any player in a long, long time.”

On the perceptions regarding Cousins’ maturity level:
“I’m sure he’ll address them as he always has addressed them, but we’re comfortable with what we’ve learned from a lot of different credible sources, some of our own, some people that have been around since he’s been in junior high school and it certainly wasn’t something that was going to deter us from drafting him.”

On what the rookies add to the Kings low-post game:
“I actually think in time, that depending on how Whiteside develops, that he’s more of a forward than he is a center, but that’s not going to happen overnight. DeMarcus is a legit center. He’s going to draw double teams, he’s got an ability to create space down there and he’s a very special talent in a lot of ways.”

On selecting Hassan Whiteside in the second round:
“We looked at quite a few scenarios of moving that (33rd) pick, and once it started looking in the Draft that he may slip down in there, we just thought that was a great opportunity to get a young player with what we think is a pretty considerable talent level that needs to be developed.”

On if there was any possibility of moving the fifth pick:
“There was never anything that elevated my blood pressure as far as moving the fifth pick. By this morning, we were pretty confident about what was going to happen in the first three picks for sure, then it just becomes a little bit of a waiting game, and we feel it all worked out for us.”

On if any other Draft prospect matched the physical strength of Cousins:
“I think he (DeMarcus) was clearly the best center in this Draft.”

On when the Kings knew Cousins would be their selection:
“I think it’s been an ongoing process. I think I’ve said a number of times there were six or seven players that we really liked, and of course we knew we weren’t getting some of them, but as we continued to do our work and evaluation, he really became the guy that we really thought would be the first of the remaining players that might be available at five.”

On if the Kings were afraid of Minnesota either trading its fourth pick or selecting Cousins:
“A little bit of both, I guess. Let’s face it, there’s a lot of liar’s poker that goes on in this thing, but, like I say, all of us have I think pretty mature relationships with people around the League and people that we can trust that, at some point in time, if they tell you something, that you can count on it. So, we got more comfortable with it as the day progressed, I guess.”

On additional Kings needs:
“I think we still need to add shooting. I think that our two-guard position certainly, an additional point guard, there will probably be a couple of primary areas that we want to try and do something with. We have open roster spots, and we’ll just go from there.”

On the different frontcourt combinations the Kings have between their big men:
“I think that’s more of a question for Paul (Westphal) to address, but I think that we added an incredible level of talent. I mean, DeMarcus is going to be able to play. You’re going to be able to play him in a game, and he’s going to be productive. He could play some offensively away from the basket because he shoots the ball so well, and I’m sure that will be an ongoing focus on how to make that work the best way that he can.”

On Cousins’ passing abilities:
“Just go watch about 15 of their (Kentucky’s) games, and you’ll see that ball flying out of the low post one time after another on double teams. He’s got a great feel for passing the ball out of there. If you watch the tapes we watched and the breakdowns of all the post-ups, you’ll see a lot of terrific passes coming out of there.”

On if Cousins and Samuel Dalembert can share the center position together:
“Again, I think that’s a primary question for Paul. I think that those two will co-exist just fine at that position. Dalembert’s averaged about 26, 27 minutes a game in his career, and Cousins played 23 minutes a game this year at Kentucky, so that still doesn’t hardly get you to 48 (minutes).”

On if Cousins can play power forward:
“I think he can play offensively some four (power forward) because he shoots the ball well out there. He’s a talented guy.”

On if the Kings entered the Draft with the intention to select two big players:
“I think we felt with the fifth pick we needed to add another quality big, and the best way we were going to be able to do that was with the Draft, so I think we had a prejudice towards going big at five. The 33rd pick was just something again, just based on the youth and what we think is the developable talent level of Whiteside, that was well worth the risk of taking him.”

On if Whiteside being selected in the second round could allow him to develop without carrying the pressure of being a first-round pick:
“It could. Just because sometimes some players can get damaged by getting taken too high, and the expectations are too high, and it makes it more difficult sometimes for them to adjust to the NBA, but hopefully we’ll start to get a first blush of that at Summer League.”

On what the Kings scouting staff saw in Whiteside during his college career:
“Our staff saw him play. He’s a talented guy that’s just a little bit raw still, but he shoots the ball really well actually. He can shoot the ball; he’s got great length, runs and jumps easily.”

On why the Kings passed on Cal’s Jerome Randle with the 33rd pick:
“He’s a terrific player, we just like Whiteside better. That’s all you can say.”

Kings Head Coach Paul Westphal

Opening Statement:
“This is quite an exciting day for us. We got two players we placed a high value on, and we weren’t sure we would get either one of them. We were sweating it out to the end with Whiteside and were really surprised that he lasted that long. His potential is very high, and it will probably take him awhile because we think that he may need to learn some things. He does some things that you can’t teach. His timing, his anticipation and his ability to block shots, not just his man’s, but to go get somebody else’s shot from the weak side is really unusual. He can shoot the ball, he can run and he’s got a chance to be a real fine player someday. So to get a player like that in the second round is what the second round is all about. Certainly, getting DeMarcus Cousins we just couldn’t be happier. The more we watched him, the more we got to know him. It just became apparent that he is a first-class big man, and usually you can’t get a first-class big man with the fifth pick in the NBA Draft. Things just aligned in our favor where teams took some players for need, some very good players that fit their need, and the center flipped which, like I said, doesn’t happen very often. We feel great about adding both of those players to our team.”

On adding these two players to the roster:
“It changes our team quite a bit. We went from a team that really scrapped to hold our own on the boards, to a big team. I think that adding size has been very important when we look at the teams we have to compete against in the West. Portland and the Lakers in particular, and you can go down the list. We were giving up size every game, and we have got some answers to size now that we can try out with these guys. It’s really nice.”

On adding Cousins to the team:
“DeMarcus, I think, will certainly have a learning curve about the NBA. At the same time, when he steps on the floor, he brings enough savvy and enough footwork and size to be somebody that’s probably going to need to be double teamed most of the time. To have a big player that’s going to need to be double teamed opens up a lot of possibilities for the other players and makes it easier for them. It gives us another weapon, that’s for sure. “

On Cousins’ weight:
“He didn’t work out against any other players, but Shareef guarded him. Shareef said he is big and strong, but he also knows how to use it. Certainly, regarding the weight he was at when he worked out here, we’d like him a little lighter than that, but this is summer time. He was lighter than that, and we believe he will be. I think he is committed to working hard and being successful. Also, he has heard people question him too, and nobody likes that, but I think that will motivate him even more. “

On comparing him to anybody out there right now:
“I don’t want to do that to him right now. If you start pulling out names that have been successful names from the past, then that follows them around. I just think that he’s got a chance to have an outstanding career as a legitimate center in this League. Let’s just see where he goes.”

On Cousins being hard to deal with:
“I have not heard that (laugh). Well, of course we talked to him, and we talked to John Calipari, his high school coach and different people. You have to check on things you hear, but the thing that keeps coming back is what a nice, competitive person he is. I know when I played, I had a few people who probably didn’t like me too much. I think anybody who has played probably has that, but I don’t know why it follows him around that much. I think people are really going to enjoy his personality and competitiveness. The more we have investigated it, the less we think it’s a problem. “

On the chance of there being problems with Cousins:
“We are just thrilled to have him, and we know that he is young. That’s the way the NBA is now. You don’t draft players after four years in college anymore. He is going to be far away from home, and there will be some adjustments, but we will try to help him through everything. I really like him, and I think he is excited to be here. I just envision growth rather than problems. I just don’t see that.”

On helping the new players adjust to being so far away from home:
“We try to provide as much guidance as we can. I don’t think we are that different from other NBA teams. We try to help them get assimilated to the community. The community is really open and friendly. We are here to help all of our young players succeed and live up to their potential. So anything that needs to be done, we will try to be helpful with that and see that it gets done.”

On the team’s new look:
“We are going to have a pretty tall Summer League team. Our team is going to look good walking through the airport wherever we go, as far as size goes. It will be a whole new look for the Kings, that’s for sure.”

On Tyreke Evans and Cousins playing together:
“I think that they can complement each other very well. One thing that I’m not sure has been apparent about DeMarcus is that he is a very good passer. Also, he can shoot the ball in situations where he is facing the basket, but he wasn’t asked to do that in Kentucky. If Tyreke penetrates and he is open on the baseline for 15-foot jumpers, then that’s a real good shot for him. He can do more than simply post up. We can involve Tyreke in pick and rolls with him, and we can post Tyreke up and have DeMarcus spot up for shots as well as crash the board. I think it’s potentially an excellent combination.”

On how they will improve the team:
“We are going to rely on Truck a lot, and I think the reason that he was brought here is because he is a specialist in working with young bigs, and we are going to try and have him teach DeMarcus to get some rebounds (laugh). He is pretty good at that already, but Truck and all of our staff can help these young players with their footwork and knowing who it is they are playing against. Also, what you can and can’t get away with in the NBA. We are here to teach and help, and I think we have a good staff for these young guys.”

On the decision process behind these picks:
“I think that our group just works as a team. I don’t think anybody is walking around talking about who has the most say and who should get credit. We all have opinions, and certainly Geoff has the final basketball decision, and the Maloof family has to sign off on everything before it’s a decision. Geoff and I talk and spend a lot of time watching film and working out these young guys. I think there was a consensus more than anything else about these picks.”

On how to coach Cousins:
“I’m looking forward to working with him. By all accounts, he is very bright. What I try to do is let a player know that I care about seeing him get better, and that I will tell him the truth about what I see. I will give him things to work on that will get him where he wants to go and where the team wants to see him go. I expect that there will be times when we will have to help him see the importance of certain things. At the same time, I think that he is bright enough and talented enough to realize the value of being coached by people that have been in a league that is new to him.”

On when the interest was locked on Cousins:
“That’s a really good question. It was not one point, but it was certainly after we met him and saw him move around on the floor and after dinner with him. It knocked down a lot of negative stereotypes that built up around him for whatever reason. We sat back and said that some of the red flags that people have about this guy we don’t see. It was pretty much after the workout and after the dinner that we had our questions answered. After that, we were saying things like, ‘How could someone not take a center that is this talented?’ It was more disbelief that he might be there than us deciding that he was our guy. If he won’t be there, then who else are we going to take, is how we looked at it after awhile.”

On why other teams did not choose Cousins:
“It sure seemed like a logical move for teams in search of a center to try to pull off. For whatever reason, the teams that picked ahead of us had their needs filled to where they didn’t choose to do that. We feel really good about that from our standpoint, and I’m sure they do, too.”

DeMarcus Cousins

On his goals:
“To help my team win some games, be a Playoff contender, win an NBA title and my own personal goal is to win Rookie of the Year.”

Message to Kings fans:
“I’m coming in, I’m trying to bring this team back to the Chris Webber and Mike Bibby days, and hopefully we can win some games.”

On how he will fit in with the team:
“I think I’m going to fit in pretty well. I think I’m the perfect piece to the puzzle. I’ll be a physical presence down low, bring a toughness to the team and hopefully we’ll win games.”

On what he brings to the team:
“I’m going to bring a physical presence. I’m going to bring a lot of production. I’m going to come in and try to work my butt off and help my team win.”

On being drafted by the Kings:
“I’m very excited. I get to play with a great guard in Tyreke, and I believe we can do some damage.”

On teaming up with Tyreke Evans:
“I think we could be a great inside-outside combo, so hopefully we come in and get a good chemistry and it helps.”

On what being drafted means to him:
“It’s a great time in my life right now. This is the day I’ve dreamed about for a long time, and it finally came. It’s the greatest feeling ever.”

On his mom:
“My mom’s been my biggest influence throughout my whole life, not just basketball. She is the hardest working person I’ve ever seen in my life. She’s my biggest influence. That’s my hero. That’s who I look up to, so she’s played a big part in my life.”

On his family:
“Me and my whole family are close. That’s what helps me get through every day, knowing my family has my back.”

On players he looks up to:
“I really don’t look up to any players. I steal players’ moves and put them in my own game, but that’s about it.”

On why he believes he’ll be the best player out of the 2010 NBA Draft class:
“I have talent. That’s there, but I just have the mentality right now that I want to be the greatest, and I don’t think any other player has that right now.”

On Kings fans being excited about him coming to Sacramento:
“It feels great. If the fans have your back, you have to have the fans’ backs, and give them what they want, so it’s a good feeling.”

On Sacramento:
“It’s pretty far from home, but I visited there, and it was a beautiful place. I loved the weather, so I’m excited to be there.”

On his official Twitter:
“@boogiecousins.”

Hassan Whiteside

On how he feels about joining the Kings:
“I’m real excited. I really liked the visit coming down there. They called me back twice, so I knew they were interested in me. I’m real excited; it’s a very young team so hopefully we can win.”

On adding DeMarcus Cousins to the team:
“I’ve never played with him, but I know he’s a good guy. I already talked to him. I think it’s a good fit and a good add.”

On his disappointment level going in the second round:
“Me going to the second round, that’s going to motivate me to work even harder and take it out on the teams that didn’t choose me when I play against them. They’re going to remember this day.”

On want he wants to say to Kings fans celebrating him being chosen by the team:
“We’re going to get wins; we’re going to get wins. That’s all I plan on doing, just coming in and help win…win, win, win, just really winning.”

On what sense he got from the coaching staff and the area when he came to Sacramento for the second time:
“The second time I came out here, the guys were a little better. I went against Greg Monroe, and it was just a little more physical the second time around. But I enjoyed going out there anyway; I really liked it out there. It didn’t bother me going out there a second time.”

On what he thinks about moving to Sacramento:
“I really like it out there. There’s warm weather, the people are nice out there. The fans are really supportive of the basketball team, so I think it’s the best fit for me.”

On what’s going through his mind tonight:
“I’m just ready to go in and work and get ready for the season.”

On how he feels about being seen/playing as a power forward-type player down the road:
“The first time playing at Marshall was my first time playing the five, so I really had to learn how to play the five. I’ve been more of a forward, a face up guy, pick-and-pop, pick-and-roll, like an athletic forward that can block shots.”

On expanding his game and what he will bring to the Kings:
“I give a shot-blocking presence and just rebounding; help rebound and being able to score for our teammates.”

On his familiarity with Kings players:
“I’ve seen Tyreke play, but other than that, I haven’t seen too many Kings players play.”

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