On This Date: Kings Games Of Christmas Past

For over 35 years, the Kings have called the city of Sacramento home.

In that time, they have accumulated seven winning seasons, and are in search of their eighth as they near the midpoint of the 2018-19 season.

Winning has its perks, and if you win enough, you just might earn the pomp and circumstance of being tapped for the Christmas day slate of NBA action. Every year, the most anticipated match-ups and showcasing of talent takes place as we gather with family and friends to celebrate the holidays.

NBA finals rematches, rivalry games, and up-and-coming teams with exciting youth take center stage on December 25th every NBA season.

Over 35 years of basketball, and the Sacramento Kings have played in two Christmas day games. Those two games included not only the best Kings teams we have ever seen, but some of the best rivalry games as well.

As we look back on these games, here’s to the future. A future that includes fans pouring into Golden 1 Center on Christmas day to watch Kings basketball.

Merry Christmas to all of our Sports 1140 KHTK listeners, from our family to yours!

December 25, 2002: The Rematch

After the infamous 2002 Western Conference Finals, the Kings traveled to Staples Center to take on the world champion Lakers for the first time since being knocked out of the playoffs.

Sacramento got their revenge, spoiling Christmas in Los Angeles with a 105-99 win, led by 25 points and 13 rebounds from Chris Webber. Peja Stojakovic had 26 points as the Kings handed the Lakers their fourth loss in five games.

December 25, 2003: Hobbled Kings fall to Dallas

Missing Peja Stojakovic and Chris Webber, Sacramento blew a 16-point halftime lead as Dirk Nowitzki scored 31 points en route to a 111-103 Mavericks victory at Arco Arena.

Mike Bibby led the Kings in scoring with 23 points, as Sacramento fell to 20-7 on the season.

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