Arkansas Analyst: Acuff ‘should have been drafted higher’ than 7th
Arkansas analyst Matt Zimmerman explains why 7th pick Darius Acuff Jr. could become the next face of the franchise for the Sacramento Kings.
Watch: Why Darius Acuff Fits The Sacramento Kings with Matt Zimmerman | 21 mins
The Sacramento Kings are hoping that Darius Acuff Jr. will become the next face of the franchise, and few people had a closer view of his historic freshman season than Arkansas basketball color analyst Matt Zimmerman.
Appearing on Sactown Sports’ The Drive Guys, Zimmerman offered a detailed look at the player Sacramento selected with the seventh overall pick in the 2026 NBA Draft.
After watching Acuff average 23.5 points and 6.4 assists per game while earning SEC Player of the Year, SEC Rookie of the Year, and Consensus All-American honors, Zimmerman believes the Kings are getting a special talent.
“When he got here, we knew how good he was going to be,” Zimmerman said. “But I sure didn’t think he was going to have the greatest individual offensive season that we’ve ever had. He exceeded every expectation.”
NBA commissioner Adam Silver shakes hands with Darius Acuff Jr. after he is drafted seventh overall by the Sacramento Kings during Round One of the 2026 NBA Draft at Barclays Center on June 23, 2026 in New York City. (Photo by Arturo Holmes/Getty Images)
More on Kings PG Darius Acuff Jr.
Darius Acuff Jr.’s offensive production was unprecedented. Not only did he lead the SEC in scoring as a freshman, but he also led the conference in assists.
Zimmerman emphasized how rare that accomplishment was, noting that no player had led a major conference in both categories since legendary former LSU guard Pete Maravich in 1969-70.
“He is so good at getting that shot off,” Zimmerman said. “He led our league in scoring as a true freshman, but then to lead our league in assists? No one has done it since Pistol Pete Maravich.”
What impressed Zimmerman even more was Acuff’s ability to elevate his game against the toughest competition. While many players see their numbers dip during conference play, Acuff’s production increased.
“He averaged almost 25 in our league,” Zimmerman said. “His numbers were better in conference play. That hardly ever happens, and it just tells you what kind of elite offensive player Darius is.”
Darius Acuff Jr. #5 of the Arkansas Razorbacks shoots a free throw against the Arizona Wildcats during the first half in the Sweet Sixteen of the 2026 NCAA Men’s Basketball Tournament at SAP Center on March 26, 2026 in San Jose, California. (Photo by Ezra Shaw/Getty Images)
Beyond the statistics, Zimmerman described Acuff as a serious, basketball-obsessed competitor whose commitment to improvement stood out throughout the season.
“He loves basketball. He’s a student of the game,” Zimmerman said. “I’ve seen the film room clear out after meetings, and he’d stay to watch more film. There aren’t a lot of guys who do that.”
Zimmerman also praised Acuff’s maturity and leadership style, explaining that while he isn’t the loudest voice in the locker room, teammates respected him because of his approach and work ethic.
Defensively, Zimmerman acknowledged the biggest question surrounding Acuff’s entry into the NBA. While he admitted that Acuff’s defense was inconsistent at Arkansas, he believes the tools are in place for significant growth.
“He’s got all the intangibles to be a good defensive player,” Zimmerman said. “Great footwork, really strong, toughness. I think he’ll be able to guard however he wants.”
For Kings fans wondering what Sacramento is getting, Zimmerman’s final assessment was simple.
“He should have gone higher than seven,” Zimmerman said. “There’s no question he should have gone higher than seven. What a great player he is.”
Listen to The Drive Guys from 2 – 6 p.m. PST, Monday through Friday, on Sactown Sports 1140.
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What is the next Sacramento Kings Offseason Event?
The Sacramento Kings will now set their sights on the California Classic, with action set to run from July 4th through July 6th at Golden 1 Center.
New Kings point guard Darius Acuff Jr. (7th pick in the 2026 NBA Draft) will go head-to-head against Brooklyn Nets guard Mikel Brown Jr. (6th pick in the 2026 NBA Draft) at 2 pm PT on July 4th, right here in downtown Sacramento.
Be sure to remain locked into Sactown Sports for your Sacramento Kings Summer League news, analysis, and much more!
Upcoming Sacramento Kings & NBA Offseason Schedule
- Wednesday, June 24th – NBA Draft (Round 2)
- Tuesday, June 30th – NBA Free Agency negotiation period begins (3 PM PT)
- Saturday, July 4th – Monday, July 6th – California Classic at Golden 1 Center
- Thursday, July 9th – NBA Las Vegas Summer League begins
- Monday, July 13th – Free Agency moratorium ends / signings can become official
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Comments
1 Comments
It's awesome to add two tough-willed competitors as Acuff and Karaban are. The type of players the Kings need. Guys who are obsessed with basketball and willing to put the work in night and day. They can lead by example and get others like Dylan etc to buy in and follow their work ethic. Looks like they are building a great, winning type culture already, early on in Perry's short tenure.