Doug Christie has officially been named the new head coach of the Sacramento Kings after serving as interim coach following Mike Brown’s dismissal in late December during the 2024-25 NBA season.
In an exclusive interview with NBC Sports California’s Deuce Mason on Friday, Christie reflected on the journey and what the moment means to him.
“I’m humbled,” he said. “It’s hard to describe. It’s been a long road, but I have a deep love and respect for what Sacramento represents. To have the organization and fans trust me with this role—it’s incredibly humbling.”
Christie expressed deep appreciation for the support he feels from the Sacramento community. With five seasons as a Kings player, a year as a broadcaster at Golden 1 Center, and the past four seasons as an assistant coach, Christie now takes the reins of a franchise he views as family.
“Having seen this team from multiple perspectives—on the court, behind the mic, and on the bench—gives me a deeper understanding and respect for what we’re building,” Christie said. “It’s helped shape a vision for where I believe we can go.”
While the Kings ended the season with a 40-42 record, there’s optimism in Sacramento, especially considering the 27-24 stretch under Christie’s leadership and the hiring of new general manager Scott Perry—someone Christie is eager to collaborate with.
“My top priority is to sit down with Scott, share our visions, align them, and start shaping the future,” he explained.
Christie’s NBA journey, which began in 1992-93 and has yet to include a championship, has brought him full circle in Sacramento. Still, he remains committed to chasing a title for the team, the city, and the fanbase—whose heartbreak from the near-miss in 2002 still lingers.
“I’m grateful for this chance,” Christie said. “And I’ll give everything I’ve got. I’ll die trying, my friend.”