Martin McNeal comment-25984 2010-04-30T04:54:53Z 2010-04-30T04:54:53Z Anonymous: I'm not hating on the Kings. It was the unnecessary over-the-top marketing promotion of Tyreke I had a problem with. I love the kid's game and I'm excited about his potential. This kid isn't 21 years old yet. He's a hard worker and just wait to see how good he is next year and 2-3 years from now. I think he was the best rookie this season and I think he deserved the award. It's my belief his work was more than enough promotion. Those who had problems with his rookie season and cannot see how good this kid can become need to remove their sunglasses. Peace. Martin McNeal 2010-04-30T04:54:53Z TheSportsInformant comment-25909 2010-04-29T17:09:22Z 2010-04-29T17:09:22Z Marty's a legend in Sacramento, just ask the NBA players, who dedicate half an hour of their postgame time to one-on-one interviews with him. I've seen it myself. He's well-respected in all areas of the game. On that note, I disagree with Marty's opinion here. The Rookie of the Year Award is a huge honor. Tyreke Evans is only one man and can only control what he does on the court. He single-handedly carried the team this year to 25 wins as a rookie, and he is being honored for doing so. While fans would like to see a playoff run, they have to appreciate having a current and future star gracing their home court each night. TheSportsInformant 2010-04-29T17:09:22Z Ben Ilfeld comment-25876 2010-04-29T05:20:04Z 2010-04-29T05:20:04Z You might want to google: "Martin McNeal" before calling him a fair weather fan. Ben Ilfeld 2010-04-29T05:20:04Z Anonymous83 comment-25822 2010-04-28T19:08:07Z 2010-04-28T19:08:07Z Martin McNeal, writer for the Sacramento Press SO SO WHAT!! You act like they just started announcing these type of awards. Yes it is a TEAM sport but people have been recognized all week for different sportsmanship awards. MVP is player focused, defensive player of the year and the 6th man of the year award all individual awards for a team sport. Maybe people in Sacramento should stop being so negative towards a young growing team and start supporting the team wether they win or loose. Look at Oklahoma City Thunder they came from nothing a team built on Rookies and they are in the playoffs doing great things!! Sincerely, Tired of the Fair Weather Kings fans Anonymous83 2010-04-28T19:08:07Z Lindol French comment-25768 2010-04-28T00:05:36Z 2010-04-28T00:05:36Z I smell a Co-Rookie of the Year, a la Elton Brand and Stevie Franchise (wow, those guys careers certainly fell down a well). You can't argue with Reke's steady performance all season long, but the way Curry improved every month and Reke finished hurt, I feel a tie coming on. It's not like kissing your sister when it's for an award. Lindol French 2010-04-28T00:05:36Z Jonathan Mendick comment-25763 2010-04-27T22:27:47Z 2010-04-27T22:27:47Z Well said, Marty. Individual awards and stats are no replacement for a good team. Not even Oscar Robertson's individual statistical brilliance could get his team anywhere. It was only when he got on a good team with Lew Alcindor (aka Kareem Abdul-Jabbar) and others, that he was able to bag a championship. Jonathan Mendick 2010-04-27T22:27:47Z sactownmack comment-24875 2010-04-15T19:32:02Z 2010-04-15T19:32:02Z Mr. McNeal, Can you believe the incredible pool of rookies that came into the NBA this year? Just amazing But Evans in my opinion is R.O.Y. I'm interested to see how the voting goes. Also I can't wait till next season, I suspect Evans will return with a 10 - 15 footer that should increase his ppg to 25 ... you heard it hear first! sactownmack 2010-04-15T19:32:02Z Nick Houser comment-23752 2010-03-24T17:56:36Z 2010-03-24T17:56:36Z It will be exciting to see what the new promotions will be this season. Having an exciting player like Tyreke Evans, in the running for Rookie of the Year, definitely contributes. Will Kings fans notice the management change on the court and/or in the arena? Nick Houser 2010-03-24T17:56:36Z hansrow comment-23672 2010-03-23T10:02:03Z 2010-03-23T10:02:03Z Watch all your favorite NBA games live any time + Over 2,301 channels http://bit.ly/bynuuW hansrow 2010-03-23T10:02:03Z Sonny Mayugba comment-23610 2010-03-21T03:41:39Z 2010-03-21T03:41:39Z Whew, glad to hear that. Sonny Mayugba 2010-03-21T03:41:39Z 1mam comment-23578 2010-03-20T16:18:17Z 2010-03-20T16:18:17Z bummer. get well soon, Tyreke. Go Kings 1mam 2010-03-20T16:18:17Z Maroussia comment-23554 2010-03-19T05:16:02Z 2010-03-19T05:16:02Z It will be great to watch Chicago Bulls, i have bought tickets from http://ticketfront.com/event/Chicago_Bulls-tickets looking forward to it. Maroussia 2010-03-19T05:16:02Z KingsFan75 comment-23448 2010-03-18T00:02:25Z 2010-03-18T00:02:25Z What's up Marty Mac?? Good to see you back in the flow!! I would much rather read your take on the Kings, then from a professed Laker Lover who is now the Kings beat writer.... KingsFan75 2010-03-18T00:02:25Z Stephen Gillis comment-23122 2010-03-08T23:45:21Z 2010-03-08T23:45:21Z It can be so frustrating to see the Kings drop the ball like that! They played so well, but there were so many times when it seemed like they just didn't care about rebounds or loose balls. How can four Kings players be beaten by one Thunder? It bewilders me. My hope is that is this team grows, it will learn and improve to become the next most improved team in the NBA. When a team loses because of free throws and rebounds, it can be a little encouraging because those are things that are easier to fix than others. Stephen Gillis 2010-03-08T23:45:21Z StevieGee comment-22753 2010-03-01T20:46:02Z 2010-03-01T20:46:02Z It's pretty bad when winning a second straight game is called extending a winning streak. StevieGee 2010-03-01T20:46:02Z John Boyer comment-22687 2010-02-27T19:10:56Z 2010-02-27T19:10:56Z good to see the fact the backcourt is working well together. Hope the musical chairs stops and these 2 get the minutes together to create the cohesivness they need to put up consistent Ws. Meanwhile very little coverage of the Sacramento State Womens basketball great season continues from the Bee. This team has moved from the basement to second place and just completed back to back 100 point efforts. Perhaps the snubbing from the Bee all these years will keep them in their winning ways John Boyer 2010-02-27T19:10:56Z sacdistrict24 comment-22434 2010-02-19T21:02:51Z 2010-02-19T21:02:51Z When I think about a team trying to win a championship, I do not see how a Kevin Martin does not fit in; However, in the NBA it takes so much to gather the right mix. Consequently, KMart will be in an offense that will fit his offensive talents. On the other hand, the Kings have gotten tougher and now are in a position to make a play for a player like Chris Bosh. Today it's too early to say how it will go for the Kings, but next year they have to win. As teams fight for playoff position, it is important that these young Kings continue to work hard to improve and have a great summer in the weight room and in the gym. The next step is that each player learns how to prepare like a pro and be ready in October. sacdistrict24 2010-02-19T21:02:51Z BrooksTruitt comment-22427 2010-02-19T17:33:30Z 2010-02-19T17:33:30Z Wow, look who the Kings got for Kevin Martin. Who do you think we could get for Kevin Johnson? bt BrooksTruitt 2010-02-19T17:33:30Z Ben Ilfeld comment-22407 2010-02-18T20:15:41Z 2010-02-18T20:15:41Z Update: this turned into a three way deal with the NY Knicks involved. TMac goes to NY. Kings give up Hilton Armstrong, Sergio and Kevin Martin and receive Carl Landry, Larry Hughes (expiring contract) and Joey Dorsey. Ben Ilfeld 2010-02-18T20:15:41Z Stephen Gillis comment-22378 2010-02-18T16:17:12Z 2010-02-18T16:17:12Z In Petrie we trust. It seems like a bum deal at first, but it might end up being very sweet. Landry seems to be a pretty good player, and with T-Mac's contract, anything might happen. If we get those players from NY, those guys can be moved elsewhere over the next year or two. This is an intriguing reshuffling of the Kings roster. I'm not too sad to see Martin go, as Evans seemed to play better without him and is clearly the better player, the better leader, and the future of this franchise. We'll see how this mixes it up, but personally, I'm excited about the possibilities. Stephen Gillis 2010-02-18T16:17:12Z Maroussia comment-22258 2010-02-15T09:13:45Z 2010-02-15T09:13:45Z It will be great to watch Los Angeles Lakers, i have bought tickets from http://ticketfront.com/event/Los_Angeles_Lakers-tickets looking forward to it. Maroussia 2010-02-15T09:13:45Z Maroussia comment-22255 2010-02-15T06:08:40Z 2010-02-15T06:08:40Z It will be great to watch NBA All Star Game, i have bought tickets from http://ticketfront.com/event/NBA_All_Star_Game-tickets looking forward to it. Maroussia 2010-02-15T06:08:40Z John Boyer comment-21817 2010-02-07T00:53:35Z 2010-02-07T00:53:35Z Hey Marty, While the Kings sort things out How about covering the mighty Hornets of Sacramento State. They have a 5 game winning streak. There are so many stories to tell about this cinderella story. The Lady Hornetshave come out of nowhere to find themselves. They play the end of a back to back tonight! John Boyer 2010-02-07T00:53:35Z m3hoops comment-21721 2010-02-04T20:41:09Z 2010-02-04T20:41:09Z Here, here! Ticha and Kara were always class acts, most often the epitome of grace under pressure and I'll never forget being there when they won the championship (with Yo leading the way) in 2005, watching them celebrate is still a sports highlight for me. As a long-time Monarchs fan, it will be super-weird to root for LA, but I'm sure I'll find it in my heart to do so now that my fave player is joining that squad. And Kara to Connecticut will be interesting to watch as well. Good luck, good luck and here's to a WNBA franchise coming to SF Bay Area in 2011!!!! m3hoops 2010-02-04T20:41:09Z Oracle comment-21717 2010-02-04T19:09:08Z 2010-02-04T19:09:08Z The headline should have read "Kings Can't Stop Anybody." These guys couldn't stop Susan Boyle in the paint. Woeful defenders. K-Mart is an especially bad defender. He's quick on going to the basket, but seems to lose that foot speed when defending. How mystifying. Well, thanks for the great stories Martin! Oracle 2010-02-04T19:09:08Z John Boyer comment-21674 2010-02-03T18:48:33Z 2010-02-03T18:48:33Z Im still mad as heck at our community for kicking the Monarchs to the curb. The Sacramento State womens team has their first 4 game winning streak with hardly an eye brow raised as well. Good luck to my favorite player Kara Lawson as well John Boyer 2010-02-03T18:48:33Z sacdistrict24 comment-21414 2010-01-28T18:47:28Z 2010-01-28T18:47:28Z If the Kings can keep the game in the 90's they have a chance to get to the playoffs. sacdistrict24 2010-01-28T18:47:28Z Stephen Gillis comment-21258 2010-01-25T22:28:00Z 2010-01-25T22:28:00Z Interesting look at the season so far. The schedule doesn't seem to get any easier though, so this team has to find its groove again if it wants to become a force to be reckoned with. But with two blowouts in a row, they're gonna need to find it quick. Only one win in January so far is just painful. Stephen Gillis 2010-01-25T22:28:00Z sacdistrict24 comment-21255 2010-01-25T19:56:01Z 2010-01-25T19:56:01Z The team normally is a reflection of the coach, and I don't see why this situation is any different. Coach Westphal has come in to a tough situation and has done what any bright coach would do, and that's put playing time up for grabs. Consequently, I am sure practices have been more competitive. However, the one area where coach falls short is on the defensive end. I think that in the pros you simply can't run back and let teams walk the ball up and run there stuff. By extended the defense you take time of of the 24 second clock, and make teams play faster. Moreover, making opponents stars work harder to get the ball is a must. Offensively, they have got to run their sets down to 20 seconds. They can't have the mentality of trying to outscore everyone. Defense wins games. If Hawes does not have a post game, take Greene down on the block or another guard that may have an advantage. I could go on forever, but I will wrap up here. I like this team. They just need to continue to work hard and realize it's about the teams success. I wish I could have five minutes with the team and explain my philosophy. I could help this Kings team reach it's potential. Kevin Martin can only help this team, and it would be a huge mistake to move him. I give this team a B, and it's because I see them as they could be and not how they should be. Keep your heads up and remember, Defense Wins. Great article Marty Mac. I can't wait for your book to drop! sacdistrict24 2010-01-25T19:56:01Z John Boyer comment-21193 2010-01-24T21:03:55Z 2010-01-24T21:03:55Z I think there was a point where the musical chairs (constantly changing line ups) took the sails out of a better than expected start. This is the hardest type of season to coach. I worry about the ramifications of constant change. Injuries are a big factor in this rebuid proccess. Perhaps its time to buy a big fella for the interior? Hope Westphal has a promising second half and finds a stabe lineup so the team dynamic can get some traction and players can work/communicate with each other effectively. Great to have you here Marty! John Boyer 2010-01-24T21:03:55Z Stephen Gillis comment-20844 2010-01-19T22:05:19Z 2010-01-19T22:05:19Z There is no reason to bring a gun to your locker. Arenas definitely misjudged the situation. Stephen Gillis 2010-01-19T22:05:19Z dgoodz24 comment-20543 2010-01-13T22:21:40Z 2010-01-13T22:21:40Z Good article! Forgot to mention Casspi's killer line 11 points, 11 rebounds, 5 assists, 1 steal...despite his poor shooting (.385). dgoodz24 2010-01-13T22:21:40Z Geoff Sakala comment-20485 2010-01-12T22:06:00Z 2010-01-12T22:06:00Z The Kings are definitely are in a rebuilding year, however there are some glimmers of a great young nucleus of talented players. If these guys can continue to work hard and develop their teamwork there's no reason they couldn't be very competitive. After a couple years of disappointment I've finally begun watching Kings games again. The Purple Pride is back. It's also intriguing that there doesn't seem to be one clear star player. The starters all seem fairly balanced. This team could be like so many great teams of the past with good chemistry and teamwork, they'll be tough to beat because there is not one player other teams can focus their attention on and shut down. Geoff Sakala 2010-01-12T22:06:00Z WorldBFree2010 comment-20457 2010-01-12T06:56:32Z 2010-01-12T06:56:32Z Kudos to the staff of Jesuit /and or people responsible for bringing in the best teams and scheduling the exciting match ups. I can't imagine it being easy to get this done so far in advance. I am impressed with Josiah Turner of Sac High. With his bball IQ and skill level he has graduated from high school basketball. Kudos to the Head Coach at Sheldon HS for pulling together many different dynamics to get the most out of his kids. The way they are winning close games is a direct reflection of his coaching abilities by putting the kids in the best position to succeed. Thanks for the conversation! WorldBFree2010 2010-01-12T06:56:32Z sacdistrict24 comment-20412 2010-01-10T23:26:58Z 2010-01-10T23:26:58Z Indeed a nice display of basketball yesterday, and I tip my hat to Katz and the Hornet squad. They continue to make strides. sacdistrict24 2010-01-10T23:26:58Z bbbbmer comment-20396 2010-01-10T01:46:54Z 2010-01-10T01:46:54Z Does this mean they're finally going to leave Sacramento??? If so, GOOD RIDDANCE! bbbbmer 2010-01-10T01:46:54Z sacdistrict24 comment-20338 2010-01-09T16:33:32Z 2010-01-09T16:33:32Z Offense, offense offense, we stopped running the offense. Is there such a things as defense? The Kings continue to try and outscore teams! Hello! Even though the Kings are young an inexperienced, they need to learn how to play defense!!! Otherwise, they we be explaining what went wrong for the rest of the season. At some point, pride must take over. This is the same game many of them have played all of their young lives. The Kings have got to start using there energy to stop people. This team is tremendously talented, but it's up to the coaching staff to get these guys to defend better. They need to see every game as a playoff game and treat it as such, or when they lose in the playoffs they will either blame it on the refs or lack of experience. I am about championships. sacdistrict24 2010-01-09T16:33:32Z sacdistrict24 comment-20270 2010-01-07T19:05:46Z 2010-01-07T19:05:46Z There is no excuse. Now let's move on with what is happening in Sactown. The young Kings are on the brink, but they are no longer secrets in the league; Consequently, they are going to have to tighten their screws. Henceforth, ever game has to be a playoff game. Every possession must have value and a possession does include the defensive end. I am not going to believe that they have brought me this far to stop playing and fighting now! The history of the league is that every team stiffens after the all-star, so they need to be ready. While a young player may be tempted to travel to all-star weekend, the professional will be in the Kings practice facility getting up jumpers, hitting the weight room and doing extra conditioning! There is a difference between an amatuer and a professional. They also need to work on their free-throws. Lastly, and a side note, the NBA game lasts 48 minutes. I wouuld like to see Kings fans remain until the final buzzer--leaving early gives the team a disadvantage phsychologically. Think about it! sacdistrict24 2010-01-07T19:05:46Z WorldBFree2010 comment-20219 2010-01-06T22:53:11Z 2010-01-06T22:53:11Z A sincere shout out to the leadership and coaching staff of the Sacramento Kings. The team is developing quickly and will pay dividends. The "close loss" spell will be broken soon and there will be more victories than lessons learned. Great team effort and hats off to Jon Brockman who continues to do most of the "dirty work". He had great stops against a great player. Thanks for the conversation. WorldBFree2010 2010-01-06T22:53:11Z sacdistrict24 comment-20204 2010-01-06T16:19:33Z 2010-01-06T16:19:33Z Great effort by the Kings. Stay with the program fellas and keep fighting. Great article!!! sacdistrict24 2010-01-06T16:19:33Z JoesacramentoDotCom comment-20137 2010-01-04T06:05:50Z 2010-01-04T06:05:50Z Marty what are you doing for work these days? JoesacramentoDotCom 2010-01-04T06:05:50Z sacdistrict24 comment-20124 2010-01-03T19:19:31Z 2010-01-03T19:19:31Z Great article Marty. I agree with what you have written. I consider myself a student of the game, and I have to tell you that I like this Kings team. They are young and talented. For them the future is bright. I like the coaching staff and how they are bringing the team along. The schedule is tough, but I fully expect that they will rebound and win a couple. sacdistrict24 2010-01-03T19:19:31Z WorldBFree2010 comment-20082 2010-01-02T06:23:48Z 2010-01-02T06:23:48Z Everything the writer put down on paper is true. Finding a way to win begins with the fundamentals, like making free throws. However, this team is no longer a secret and will continue to work and get better in the future. WorldBFree2010 2010-01-02T06:23:48Z stevejones1 comment-20081 2010-01-02T04:12:52Z 2010-01-02T04:12:52Z As always a good job discovering and placing on paper what the team has ,and with time and application could do for the team, it's going to take some hardnose play on the part of the Kings to be considered at any level. Great call when Mr. McNeal says and I quote " They must become efficient in execution, or there going to execute themselves. It's now time to pick it up! Great article, and I will end as always with a word to Mr. McNeal: Keep writing, and I will keep reading". stevejones1 2010-01-02T04:12:52Z Oracle comment-20069 2010-01-01T17:35:41Z 2010-01-01T17:35:41Z The Kings haven't played good defense in recent games. They need to pick up the intensity on the D-end of the floor. Minus Tyreke, KMart and Cisco, I don't expect them to win in LA or even against Dallas tomorrow. I'm hoping they make a decent showing and learn a few things. LA is due for a monster game after some sorry efforts of late. Even when the Kings get thumped, I'm enjoying the effort and future these kids are showcasing. Get 'em Kings!! Oracle 2010-01-01T17:35:41Z sacdistrict24 comment-20068 2010-01-01T15:47:52Z 2010-01-01T15:47:52Z Great article. There is no question about the Kings talent. However, the writer speaks about playing both ends of the floor. On the offensive end you have the glamour, but on the defensive end you just have hard work and wins. If the Kings are going to beat the Lakers, in Los Angeles, they will have to extend the defense and take the Lakers out of their rhythm. Everything done by Lakers, offensively, is defined by their ability to execute. Lastly, and in case it has not been noticed, free-throws are at a premium in 2010--good luck. sacdistrict24 2010-01-01T15:47:52Z WorldBFree2010 comment-20064 2010-01-01T06:48:26Z 2010-01-01T06:48:26Z This was just a situation where the Kings took an opponent lightly and paid for it. They took the foot off the gas in the second quarter and the Sixers started to believe they could beat them and did it. Allen looked crafty and clever on the court and it was good to see him. The young leaders on the Kings will have to lead the team during these "grind" type of games when they are the favorite to find a way to win. The team is developing and are a pleasure to watch. WorldBFree2010 2010-01-01T06:48:26Z sacdistrict24 comment-20039 2009-12-31T15:06:54Z 2009-12-31T15:06:54Z When the young Kings make it their goal to keep teams under 100 points, they truly will be on their way! sacdistrict24 2009-12-31T15:06:54Z stevejones1 comment-20026 2009-12-31T00:58:01Z 2009-12-31T00:58:01Z As always, Mr. McNeal tells it like it is, or the way it should be. It's a blessing to be able to read such an indepth and straight forward account of a game that America love. Kurdos to you Mr. McNeal, and as always " You keep writing, and I will keep reading. stevejones1 2009-12-31T00:58:01Z sacdistrict24 comment-20016 2009-12-30T14:06:34Z 2009-12-30T14:06:34Z Great article. You said just about everything that needs to be said. However, I just love talking about basketball and championships. The Kings need to look for JT more, and let JT decide if he is going to attack or kick out. The benefits will be more rebounds and less fouls. Resting Evans will give him a much needed couple days off--Surely the pro season is beginning to take effect. Moreover, by sitting, he can gain more appreciation for his team and what they can do, and it gives coach a chance to let some other players grow their confidence. The young Kings need to have a good January. The league seems to change after the All-Star break. sacdistrict24 2009-12-30T14:06:34Z TAB comment-19979 2009-12-30T00:44:30Z 2009-12-30T00:44:30Z Awesome game. Very Very well done King fish. Lets kick some more but Wednesday. Paul you and your young team are the BOMB !!!!!! TAB 2009-12-30T00:44:30Z Sonny Mayugba comment-19961 2009-12-29T17:30:55Z 2009-12-29T17:30:55Z Go Noc! Thanks for the play by play M2. I was in travel mode and missed the game entirely. Great piece. Sonny Mayugba 2009-12-29T17:30:55Z sacdistrict24 comment-19952 2009-12-29T15:34:41Z 2009-12-29T15:34:41Z Great article. I thought Brockman was huge. Even though he got 10 boards, I had a lot of fun just watching him box out and use his body. D. Greene did a nice job, especially defensively. He took a charge and that's a GREAT sign. Great wins for the team, and it seemed that coach pulled all the right strings. Oh, and great job Sergio! You can get to the basket any time you want!!! sacdistrict24 2009-12-29T15:34:41Z sacdistrict24 comment-19872 2009-12-27T14:18:25Z 2009-12-27T14:18:25Z The young Kings continue to show promise. As the team that is the model came to town, the Kings did compete. And while they theoretically passed the test, they agian came away empty handed. When a coach has such a young team, there will be times when he has to guide them in to the victors circle. If any of the Kings players read this going forward, you have to get your work done early. If you want to recieve an A or victory on the road or against upper echelon teams, do your work. Four down is what I call it, but Westphal calls it one floor flat. However, it's not going to win a championship for both of us. Here is what you need to do. Your immediate goal has to be to win the first quarter! And going forward you have to win the next three or maintain the lead you established in quarter one. Secondly, you have to defend balls out. There has got to be a time when you extend the defense and take a team of of their rythm. Think about the offensive talent that just oozes from the Kings, but think about just how good they could be if they used some of that talent to rebound and defend. After all, they do want to win a championship? Don't they? Great article. sacdistrict24 2009-12-27T14:18:25Z Jaybird comment-19858 2009-12-26T20:08:27Z 2009-12-26T20:08:27Z Marty... I hooked up with you at the Cleveland game and you told me to check you out on this web page. I'm glad you did as I have enjoyed reading your postings... now we need to just get you back on 1140 to give Grant and Mike a different look at things. I hope 2010 brings you great success! Pink minis and peace to you! Jaybird 2009-12-26T20:08:27Z sacdistrict24 comment-19856 2009-12-26T17:42:45Z 2009-12-26T17:42:45Z These Kings are not far from where they want to go, and where I would love to take them and that is to a championship. This team is clearly loaded with talent, but wi th every championship team what's most important is players being comfortable with there roles. The pont guard normally is the leader, and the center usually the heart. Evans and Hawes clearly are critical components to the drive to the championship. For Evans becoming a student of the game is key and learning the nuances of his team is large. Although Hawes can score in this league, this team needs him to protect the paint and board like a man. Finally, every championship team has had a guy who could defend. I agree that Donte Green could be the guy, and while tonight it will be the Lakers vs. Kings, for me personally the game within the game will be if Donte continues to establish himself as an integral piece to the forthcoming championship. Yes, Donte has the requisite skills to be a star in the league, but the question remains: is he about championships? Great article, Marty! sacdistrict24 2009-12-26T17:42:45Z stevejones1 comment-19854 2009-12-26T13:45:11Z 2009-12-26T13:45:11Z Being from New York City I can remember the frustration being a Knick fan and knowing that there was a solution to the teams problems, but just not knowing what it was. I could always see the potential and would constantly pray that the right mix of whatever the team needed would bring them together, and so I believe it is with the Kings the potential is there from what I read in Mr. McNeal's story, but they just seem to have to get it together!! Perhaps Mr. McNeal should COACH!! (smile). As always great story!!! I end as I always will " Continue to write, and I will continue to read" stevejones1 2009-12-26T13:45:11Z stevejones1 comment-19852 2009-12-25T21:40:18Z 2009-12-25T21:40:18Z Great game, I was not able to attend it, but through the expressive desciption of the writer, I was able to visualize the key points of the game!!!!! BIG THUMBS UP TO Mr. McNeal. Continue to write, and I will contine to read stevejones1 2009-12-25T21:40:18Z TAB comment-19847 2009-12-25T06:07:21Z 2009-12-25T06:07:21Z Awesome game. nail biter. Playoff caliber. I'm really impressed with this young team TAB 2009-12-25T06:07:21Z sacdistrict24 comment-19833 2009-12-24T20:29:30Z 2009-12-24T20:29:30Z Indeed credit must be given to all involved in the recent growth of the Kings. They have a great nuclues of young talent that will only be bolstered by the return of veterans KMart and 'Cisco. Basketball is a game of possessions and for the most part, the young Kings played each possession; However, this brings me to my point. The last possession speaks to the importance of being ready for opportunity. The team toils each game to have an opportunity to win the game, but when the opportunity appeared it was not recognized. This is not a criticism, but insight of what it will take for this team to win a championship and not just a road game. Great article. sacdistrict24 2009-12-24T20:29:30Z Jaybird comment-19826 2009-12-24T17:26:18Z 2009-12-24T17:26:18Z I went to the game last night and it felt like the playofsf... yes there were Cavs fans there but the Kings fan drowned them out until the very end. The Kings have put together a very young and talented team. Jaybird 2009-12-24T17:26:18Z 20SomethingSac comment-19824 2009-12-24T17:03:41Z 2009-12-24T17:03:41Z The Kings outplayed themselves for all 48 minutes, it was impressive. It was incredible watching the young guys play the Cavs with confidence, poise, and really never falling behind the whole game (not including the overtime). Tyreke balled out of control, something that I was curious about going into the game with all the press hype. If you were to tell me that a group of second, third year players & rookies were going to take the Cavs into overtime when LeBron has a triple-double, I'd call your bluff everytime. I'm not one for "moral victories," but I'll take an OT loss to King James as a bigger statement than beating the Nets or Knicks a few times over. That overtime stretch... shouldn't have even occurred. The inbound pass at the end of the game to Varejao for the 3-pointer was an illegal pass- it bounced out of bounds before coming into play. Even still, the YEARS of playoff and NBA finals experience was definitely the determining factor in Cleveland's ability to close out that game in OT... Something the young Kings will hopefully acquire very soon. 20SomethingSac 2009-12-24T17:03:41Z terrytenley comment-19741 2009-12-22T22:04:24Z 2009-12-22T22:04:24Z Hi Marty. A Forester is a servent of a corporation or the government in this county (in my case) and manages trees and whole forests to create healthy forests that provide water for a region. As for Brockman his size and quick hands more than make up for his shorter 6'7" frame. Can you imagine what it would be like to put him on the floor when Shack is playing and Spense when Z is playing. I am not really a Spense fan but I love heart that Brock has. I have read your column for a while and have stood by the Kings since they came to town. I also remember Spenser Haywood in his day and the famous Downtown Freddy Brown. This guy knocked Jerry Reynolds team out of a national champion... ask him some time... I have followed the NBA since 1961 and was so amazed last night and being a die hard I watched all of the game to the end. You are wow too ...in your columns and keep it up. TT terrytenley 2009-12-22T22:04:24Z Matthew Ceccato comment-19740 2009-12-22T21:02:12Z 2009-12-22T21:02:12Z Great article Marty Mac. The Kings need to become more consistent on the road we wish to be in the playoffs. Matthew Ceccato 2009-12-22T21:02:12Z Martin McNeal comment-19733 2009-12-22T18:44:09Z 2009-12-22T18:44:09Z TT, No, it wouldn't erase that label... Jackson didn't coin the phrase and Sacramento has some cow-town mentality as I see it. Jackson should know from cowtowns, he's played high school ball in Williston, North Dakota. The man whom Marv Albert used to call Head and Shoulders (because of his physique) when he played for the New York Knicks was a great college player. Martin McNeal 2009-12-22T18:44:09Z Martin McNeal comment-19732 2009-12-22T18:37:51Z 2009-12-22T18:37:51Z what up TT... I love Brockman (the wildman). I love dudes you hate if you are on the other team and love if he's on yours. The kid never has seen a rebound that in his mind wasn't meant for him. Plus, he rotates to help defensively like few rookies I can remember. He's a keeper. I'm a New Yorker... help a brother out. What is a forester? I know what a Husky is, but a forester. Nope. Later, folks. Martin McNeal 2009-12-22T18:37:51Z Martin McNeal comment-19731 2009-12-22T18:31:56Z 2009-12-22T18:31:56Z Yes, district 24... The world is back... I think I was in a union (district 24?) like yours... villains, thieves and scoundrels union to show my age and appreciation of Rocket J, Boris Badenov (how do you spell that name?) and Bullwinkle. Don't like that phrase step up. Play hard, as smart as they can and clog up expressways to their basket will be enough for me. Peace. Martin McNeal 2009-12-22T18:31:56Z terrytenley comment-19725 2009-12-22T09:13:29Z 2009-12-22T09:13:29Z Marty One more note... What if Casspi, Brockman, Evans started with Thompson and Nos or Bano?? If they play well wouldn't the Coach and GM forever erase a label by Phil Jackson as a cow town??. terrytenley 2009-12-22T09:13:29Z terrytenley comment-19724 2009-12-22T08:58:06Z 2009-12-22T08:58:06Z Thanks Marty, I think that Brockmans +26 play ratio really shows that his presence and quick hands did yield big for the Kings in this huge come back. If I were coach I might start him against Shack or Pau.....and see what happens.. this could be a huge! ... From a 1974 Husky Forester (retired) in Camino. PS Anyone remember Wes Unsel?? terrytenley 2009-12-22T08:58:06Z sacdistrict24 comment-19721 2009-12-22T06:06:15Z 2009-12-22T06:06:15Z Marty Mac's world back in effect. True sportsman. Great article and you are right, this week is great for the Kings. Let's hope they step up! sacdistrict24 2009-12-22T06:06:15Z John Gladding comment-15439 2009-10-13T06:45:13Z 2009-10-13T06:45:13Z I'm excited about the upcoming season... we have our purple mardi gras beads ready to go. I don't have the heart to tell them Mikki Moore doesn't play with them anymore (they just like his hair) John Gladding 2009-10-13T06:45:13Z ThinkingStiff comment-15428 2009-10-13T04:42:12Z 2009-10-13T04:42:12Z Orange doesn't rhyme with purple. ThinkingStiff 2009-10-13T04:42:12Z scojack comment-15402 2009-10-12T23:31:33Z 2009-10-12T23:31:33Z I'm ready to deck my kids out in Kings purple. This team seems poised to score more points this year. scojack 2009-10-12T23:31:33Z eelr comment-15395 2009-10-12T21:55:59Z 2009-10-12T21:55:59Z You are right about the Blazers. They are loaded & will be great if (big IF , I know) Oden stays healthy. He doesn't even have to stay out of foul trouble since he has Pryz backing him up. eelr 2009-10-12T21:55:59Z DannyBoy1 comment-15339 2009-10-12T16:56:59Z 2009-10-12T16:56:59Z Glad to see Marty McNeal covering the Kings again. I can't wait for the season to start so I can see the man child Tyreke Evans represent the PURPLE and Black. DannyBoy1 2009-10-12T16:56:59Z Melissa Johnson comment-15264 2009-10-11T00:41:53Z 2009-10-11T00:41:53Z Pretty PURPLE... Sacramento Kings rock! Melissa Johnson 2009-10-11T00:41:53Z Melissa Warren comment-15245 2009-10-10T06:31:56Z 2009-10-10T06:31:56Z We can't wait for the season to start. We'll be wearing PURPLE with pride! My 8 year-old son is especially excited. He met Bobby Jackson a couple of weeks ago and had his basketball signed by him. I was impressed with how kind Bobby was to everyone he met. I hope he'll be back on the court with the Kings this year. Melissa Warren 2009-10-10T06:31:56Z sacgirl88 comment-15206 2009-10-09T20:02:07Z 2009-10-09T20:02:07Z i cant wait to see how every one gels together go purple sacgirl88 2009-10-09T20:02:07Z sacdistrict comment-15200 2009-10-09T17:25:25Z 2009-10-09T17:25:25Z I am in agreement to a certain extent. As as coach, I like to look at the upside. Yes, there will be growing pains, but if the boys have a desire to be men it could happen. And yes, I am the fish that saved Pittsburgh! sacdistrict 2009-10-09T17:25:25Z Oracle comment-15179 2009-10-09T16:55:00Z 2009-10-09T16:55:00Z Since Kenny Thomas is in the last year of his contract, I'd like to see the Kings get something out of him too - like a trade! Expiring contracts are desireable for some teams. Let's dump this stiff! Thanks for the Kings story MartyMac! Oracle 2009-10-09T16:55:00Z JTC comment-15178 2009-10-09T16:08:52Z 2009-10-09T16:08:52Z Great to see you back, Marty Mac!! I always enjoyed reading your columns and really appreciate your insight!! That being said, as a St. Louis Cardinals fan and a Mizzou grad, last night was the ultimate "junk punch"!! It's a "Black Friday" here in Stanford Ranch!! JTC 2009-10-09T16:08:52Z Steve Tuck comment-15170 2009-10-09T14:51:02Z 2009-10-09T14:51:02Z I'm confident this season will be worth watching, even with the growing pains and the learning that is needed. We seem to have some nice talent this season. Steve Tuck 2009-10-09T14:51:02Z danmum comment-15169 2009-10-09T14:49:33Z 2009-10-09T14:49:33Z ...can't wait for the young guys to bring back the purple pride... danmum 2009-10-09T14:49:33Z Kat Luca comment-15166 2009-10-09T14:27:13Z 2009-10-09T14:27:13Z Wishing the Kings good luck with their new coach, Paul Westphal. PURPLE ROCKS! Kat Luca 2009-10-09T14:27:13Z