Domantas Sabonis, the All-NBA center for the Sacramento Kings, has consistently expressed his deep appreciation for both the team and the city of Sacramento. Since joining the Kings in February 2022, Sabonis has not only been a pivotal player on the court but also an active and engaged member of the community.
A Warm Welcome and Community Engagement
Upon his arrival in Sacramento, Sabonis was immediately embraced by the fans and the community. He recounted, “The fans give us so much, the city has given me so much. I’ve said that they’ve welcomed me with open arms.” This warm reception extended beyond him to his family, noting that fans were kind and supportive, even recognizing and assisting his wife when she was out without him.
Demonstrating his commitment to giving back, Sabonis has been actively involved in local organizations, including GiGi’s Playhouse, a Down syndrome achievement center, and the Sacramento Food Bank. His engagement reflects a genuine desire to contribute positively to the community that has welcomed him so wholeheartedly.
Desire for a Long-Term Future with the Kings
Sabonis has openly expressed his intention to build a lasting legacy with the Kings. In a candid interview, he stated, “As a player, you always want to build a legacy somewhere, and you can’t do it if you’re not in one place and doing great things for that team.” He acknowledged that his future with the team would depend on both his individual performance and the collective success of the team.
This sentiment was further underscored by his actions in October 2023, when Sabonis signed a contract extension that would keep him with the Kings through the 2027-28 season. Expressing his gratitude, he remarked, “I’m happy the franchise believes in me, and I can be here for a long time now.” He also highlighted the importance of fan support, recalling the standing ovation he received upon his arrival and emphasizing how much it meant to him and his family.
Embracing Sacramento’s Lifestyle
Beyond basketball, Sabonis has found joy in the lifestyle and environment that Sacramento offers. He shared his appreciation for the city’s proximity to various attractions, mentioning, “We have really found our spots; there is so much to do. We have Napa, San Fran, Lake Tahoe. The weather is great here.” He also noted the convenience of being close to his wife’s family in Los Angeles, making it a perfect situation for their family.
Honoring Family Legacy
In a move that further solidifies his connection to the Kings, Sabonis changed his jersey number from No. 10 to No. 11 in the 2024-25 season. This number holds significant personal meaning, as he explained, “The number 11 holds a special place in mine and my family’s lives, having worn it throughout my career in honor of my father.” He expressed gratitude to the family of Bob Davies, the original holder of the retired No. 11 jersey, for allowing him to wear it, stating, “I look forward to building on the legacy of all those who wore it before me.”
Conclusion
- Domantas Sabonis’ journey with the Sacramento Kings is a testament to his dedication both on and off the court. His desire to build a legacy with the team, active community involvement, and personal connections to the city highlight a profound commitment to Sacramento. As he continues to excel in his role, both he and the Kings look forward to a future filled with shared success and enduring legacy.
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