Sacramento Kings Kicking Off Potential End To 16-Year Nba Playoff Drought

Ladies and gentlemen, could tonight be the night the Kings make history? We're talking about a video from the last playoff game for the Kings back in May 2006. A win tonight could seal the deal, marking a triumphant return to the NBA playoffs. The game kicks off at 7 o'clock, and the excitement is palpable in the air.

Good evening, I'm Chris Thomas.

And I'm Laura Painter. Thank you for joining us. The city of Sacramento is buzzing, and we have live team coverage.

ABC 10's Devin Truby is out there with the fans who are eagerly anticipating a big night. But first, let's dive into the action inside the Golden 1 Center with our sports director, Kevin John.

A Long-Awaited Victory

This is not just a big night; it's an astronomical night. We're talking about 16 seasons and 17 long years since the Kings last graced the playoffs. The anticipation is electric as fans flood into the arena, filling the stands with hope and excitement.

I'm joined by the Sack Town Panthers, an AAU team, and you can see the anticipation in their eyes. What do you want to see tonight? That's right, they want to see the beam lit, and every Kings fan in the arena shares this fervent desire.

Sealing Their Destiny

The Kings' fate hangs in the balance, and if they secure a win tonight, they'll write a new chapter in their storied history. It's a momentous occasion for a team that has battled through its share of ups and downs. To witness them playing at the top of their game is simply indescribable.

Carolyn, a season ticket holder since 1985 when the Kings first moved to Sacramento, perfectly encapsulates the significance of this night. It means everything. We've waited so long for a moment like this, and the journey has been filled with twists and turns. To see the team perform this well is exhilarating, truly beyond words.

The City Unites

And Carolyn is not alone in her sentiments. The 18,000-plus fans in attendance tonight share her enthusiasm. They are here to see the beam lit and the Kings clinch a playoff spot. It's a testament to unwavering loyalty, like Carolyn's, that has stuck with the Kings through thick and thin.

As we eagerly await the outcome of this historic night, myself and Matt George will have much more to share at 11 o'clock tonight right here on ABC 10.

Devin Truby, on the other hand, is with the fans who have been patiently awaiting this moment for a very, very long time. Devin, what are the fans saying besides their excitement for the lit beam?

A Full Circle Moment

The fans know that this is a full-circle moment for the Kings. Just take a look at the lines forming at security; fans are eager to get inside, and the bars and restaurants around the arena are already experiencing an hour wait. The Kings' success is undoubtedly a boon for local businesses.

The Sacramento Downtown Partnership reports a 20% increase in foot traffic compared to last year, all thanks to the Kings' winning season. This goes to show that it's more than just a basketball game; it's a unifying force that brings the community together.

To witness the Kings make it to the playoffs would be nothing short of incredible. The energy in the downtown area is palpable, and it's a testament to what a winning team can do for a city.

And let's not forget the city's commitment to the Kings. They're lighting up not just the beam but three additional buildings in a resplendent shade of purple, the Kings' signature color.

A Sea of Purple

The atmosphere is going to be electric tonight, and every fan entering the Golden 1 Center will be equipped with clappers, guaranteeing an extra decibel level of noise. It's a "Gray Out" as well, with a gray T-shirt adorning every fan's seat.

The city and its fans have gone all out to support their beloved Kings in clinching this win tonight. It's all about painting the town purple and celebrating a team that's brought so much pride to the city.

Chris, Laura, this is a night for the books. The Kings' faithful have waited patiently, and now, they're on the verge of history. It's a night of celebration, community, and unbridled joy. Let's see those beams light up, and may the Kings reign supreme once again!