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Kings announce Karl as coach
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All posts by Alan DraperUpdated3 hours ago on April 19, 2024
The Sacramento Kings officially hired George Karl as their head coach on Tuesday.
The team did not release contract terms for the 27th coach in franchise history and the 16th since the relocation to Sacramento, but previous reports indicated the deal was for $14.5 million over four years. The Kings announced before the NBA All-Star break that interim coach Tyrone Corbin would not be retained.
“We’re fortunate to be taking a step towards returning this franchise to prominence with one of the best coaches in basketball on our sideline,” Kings general manager Pete D’Alessandro said. “George knows how to win, as evidenced by a lifetime track record of success and ability to maintain consistency throughout his three decades in the game. We’re excited to welcome him to Sacramento.”
Karl is well-traveled as an NBA coach, making stops in Cleveland (1984-86), Golden State (1986-88), Seattle (1991-98), Milwaukee (1998-2003) and Denver (2004-2013). He most recently worked as a television analyst.
“I’m extremely excited for the opportunity to coach again in the NBA and I’m thankful it’s happening in Sacramento,” Karl said. “I’m looking forward to the challenge of helping guide the franchise back to greatness.
“We have an owner in Vivek Ranadive who is committed to winning, a roster with some impressive components already assembled and an exciting new development downtown. Anyone who follows basketball, even at a casual level, understands that Kings fans are renowned for their passionate support of the team.
“I’ve coached against the Kings in some important moments over the years and was always amazed by the level of energy they bring to the game. We’re going to provide them with more instances to display that enthusiasm.”
Karl was named the NBA Coach of the Year in 2013 after leading the Nuggets to a franchise-record 57 victories. His teams finished the regular season with a .500 record or better in an NBA-best 21 consecutive years from 1991-92 through 2012-13.
The 63-year-old Karl, who has survived two battles with cancer, is among a select group of NBA coaches with 1,000 career wins.
