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| Jason Thompson |
As cheers rang from a sea of more than 500 Kings fans, Kings Public Address Announcer Scott Moak introduced President of Basketball Operations Geoff Petrie and Head Coach Reggie Theus, who thanked the exuberant crowd for its constant loyalty, passion and support.
Then came the intros of the newest Kings, as Moak bellowed Thompson, Singletary and Ewing Jr.'s names for the first time, the mall had the feel of the thunderous roars that take place at ARCO Arena at least 41 times per year.
"A lot of fans came out to support us," Singletary said. "So I can just imagine what is going to happen during the season."
Wowed by their reception, the players showed off the smiles that haven't faded since their names were called on Draft Night.
"I'm a people person, not a shy guy, so to have this and get to know a lot of people and get to know the city is good," Thompson said.
Joined by the Sacramento Kings Dance Team and the Kings zany mascot Slamson, the rookies threw out Kings T-shirts and mini basketballs to the crowd.
"It's something that really feels good to come out here and get to know people that are going to support me during the year," Thompson said beaming after leaving the stage swarmed by autograph seekers. "It's a good feeling."
The feeling was shared by his teammates, who also enjoyed getting to know the community they will now call home.
"It's real exciting just to get so much energy, it's like college times 10, so it's great," Singletary said flocked by fans dressed in his alma mater colors, University of Virginia, and Kings gear.
"I love it," Ewing Jr. said surrounded by fervent fans. "I'm very much a people person, so I love to hang out with all the fans. They're showing me love and I'm showing it back to them."
The excitement created by their introduction only made the players more eager to show the fans what they can do on the court.
"I'm anticipating it," Ewing Jr. said of the 2008-09 season. "They say there's a good home court advantage here and I'm looking forward to it."
Each player sported his new Kings jerseys to the appearance and before each of them returned to the East Coast to pack their belongings and get ready for mini-camp and the ensuing Las Vegas Summer League, they had one stop to make, the Sacramento Kings Team Store.
The Kings could not get past the rival Los Angeles Lakers, dropping a 94-89 decision Sunday. Beno Udrih, who did not play in the last game, returned and handed out eight assists.
The Sacramento Kings Dance Team boasts seven returnees and nine new members for the 2008-09 season.
Kings fans flooded ARCO to celebrate Fandemonium with their favorite Kings players.