Why Kings rookie Jalen Slawson is already asking fans not to hate him

The Sacramento Kings introduced their newest members of the franchise on Tuesday as 34th overall pick Colby Jones and 54th selection Jalen Slawson took the stage at Golden 1 Center to meet the media.

Following the press conference, Sactown Sports’ Jason Ross had a chance to sit down with Slawson and discuss various topics, including the 23-year-old’s fit with Sacramento, his excitement about joining this up-and-coming team, and much more.

Slawson, a 6’7 wing with a 6’11 wingspan, averaged 15.6 points, 7.1 rebounds, 3.2 assists, 1.5 steals, and 1.5 blocks per game while shooting 55 percent from the field and 39 percent from three-point range over 36 games for the Furman Paladins.

The senior received his second-straight Southern Conference Player of the Year honor while shooting over 40 percent on catch-and-shoot three-point field-goal attempts and over 60 percent at the rim while defending positions three through five.

Here’s Sactown Sports’ one-on-one exclusive with Sacramento Kings rookie Jalen Slawson:

Topics Discussed

• Slawson talks about his recent success–leading Furman past Virginia in the NCAA Tournament and getting drafted
• Breaking down 13-seed Furman’s win over 4-seed Virginia in the Round of 64
• Slawson talks about the emotions that he felt when he got drafted
• “It was the craziest night in my life.”
• What has it been like getting to know fellow Kings rookie Colby Jones?
• “It’s the start to a strong brotherhood.”
• Which NBA player does Slawson compare himself to?

Sacramento Kings Offseason Schedule

• Friday, June 30– Free Agent negotiating period begins
• Monday, July 3rd & Wednesday, July 5th – California Classic Summer League at Golden 1 Center
• Thursday, July 6– Free Agents can begin signing deals
• Friday, July 7–Monday, July 17– NBA Summer League in Las Vegas
• August TBD– 2023-24 NBA regular season schedule release
• September TBD– Sacramento Kings training camp begins

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