Sabonis Leads Kings’ Resurgence, Credits Coach Christie’s Impact

SACRAMENTO, Calif. — Domantas Sabonis, the Sacramento Kings‘ All-Star center, has been instrumental in the team’s recent seven-game winning streak, earning Western Conference Player of the Week honors for Week 12 of the 2024-25 NBA season. Sabonis averaged 22 points, 20.3 rebounds, and 7.3 assists during the week, leading the Kings to a 3-0 record and reigniting playoff hopes.

In a post-game interview with Basketnews’ Donatas Urbonas, Sabonis reflected on the team’s rocky start to the season, which included the firing of former head coach Mike Brown. “There was a lot of drama,” Sabonis admitted. “With Fox, coach, everybody. But we must think about the team and how we play, not the outside noise.”

Under new head coach Doug Christie, the Kings have seen a dramatic turnaround. Sabonis praised Christie’s leadership, emphasizing his passion for the team and the city. “He has a huge heart. He loves Sacramento deeply and will give everything for the Kings. You can see it daily in practices, film sessions, and games. The players feel that and want to fight for him,” Sabonis said.

Christie’s impact extends beyond the court. Sabonis shared a humorous anecdote about Christie’s time in Lithuania, where he got lost while biking between Palanga and Klaipeda. “Doug gets along with my family very well. With my dad, brothers, mom, and everyone… He really loved Palanga,” Sabonis revealed.

Sabonis’ performance has been a key factor in the Kings’ resurgence. Over the last seven games, he has averaged 19.9 points, 17.3 rebounds, and 7 assists while shooting 58.8% from three-point range. His improved shooting has been a focal point this season, with Sabonis crediting Christie and the coaching staff for their confidence in him. “The staff wanted me to take 3-4 three-pointers per game. When you have that kind of confidence from them, you start making shots,” Sabonis explained.

Sabonis also highlighted Christie’s influence on his free-throw shooting, which has seen significant improvement. “Every summer, I analyze where and how I can improve. Doug Christie and I worked on my three-point shot this summer, but we also decided to focus on free throws. I understand that if I go to the free-throw line 5-7 times and make more of them, I’ll score more points for the team,” he said.

The Kings’ recent success has reignited hope among fans, with the team now firmly in the playoff picture. Sabonis’ leadership and Christie’s coaching have been pivotal in turning the season around, proving that the Kings are a force to be reckoned with in the Western Conference.