Sacramento basketball season preparations

Sacramento-based basketball programs have entered preparations for the 2026-27 season. At the collegiate level, the Sacramento State men’s basketball team has begun official practices ahead of their November 2 opener, noting a transition from the Big Sky Conference to the Big West Conference.

In the professional sphere, the Los Angeles Lakers defeated the Sacramento Kings 127-103 in their NBA preseason opener at the Golden 1 Center. Luka Dončić led the Lakers' offense, scoring 21 points in just 16 minutes of play during the first half. Despite missing Austin Reaves and Walker Kessler, the Lakers maintained control, supported by 19 points from rookie Cameron Carr and 16 from Quentin Grimes.

The Kings struggled with perimeter shooting, making only 4 of 23 three-pointers. Nick Clifford led Sacramento with 23 points and 9 rebounds, while center Domantas Sabonis was limited by foul trouble.

Regarding the Kings' roster, Ben Simmons, Malik Monk, and Keegan Murray were officially ruled out for the opener. The team is utilizing a cautious approach with Simmons as he returns from a back injury that sidelined him for the entire 2025-26 season; he is expected to make his debut later this week.