Kings to Retain Head Coach Doug Christie

Organization cites roster issues, injuries as reasons for keeping Christie despite dismal season.

Apr. 12, 2026 at 4:22pm

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A cubist, geometric painting depicting a fragmented basketball court and players, rendered in deep purple, navy blue, and crimson red tones, conceptually representing the complex factors behind the Kings' disappointing season.The Kings' decision to retain head coach Doug Christie reflects the organization's belief that roster issues, not coaching, were the primary cause of the team's struggles this season.Today in Sacramento

The Sacramento Kings have decided to retain head coach Doug Christie for another season, despite the team's dismal 22-59 record with one game left to play. According to sources, the Kings' front office does not pin the team's struggles solely on Christie, acknowledging that the roster was not good enough and that injuries derailed the season, preventing Christie from having a fair chance to prove himself.

Why it matters

The Kings' decision to keep Christie signals a commitment to stability and continuity, even in the face of a disappointing season. This move suggests the organization believes Christie can help guide the team's rebuild and development, provided he is given a healthier roster and more favorable circumstances.

The details

Doug Christie was a popular player for the Kings from 2000 to 2005 and took over as the team's head coach in 2024, first as an interim and then permanently after the 2024-25 season. The Kings sit at 22-59 with one game remaining in the 2025-26 season, well short of internal expectations. However, the organization has decided to retain Christie, citing the roster's shortcomings and the impact of injuries as key factors in the team's struggles this season.

  • The Kings hired Doug Christie as their head coach in 2024.
  • The Kings are 22-59 with one game left in the 2025-26 season.

The players

Doug Christie

The current head coach of the Sacramento Kings, who took over the role in 2024 after a successful playing career with the team from 2000 to 2005.

Mike Brown

The previous head coach of the Sacramento Kings, who was replaced by Doug Christie in 2024.

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What they’re saying

“Despite the Kings' brutal season, and amid league-wide speculation that they might make a coaching change, Doug Christie is safe.”

— Sam Amick, Reporter

What’s next

The Kings will be hoping for good luck in the upcoming NBA Draft Lottery to help accelerate their rebuild and make their recent tanking worth the trouble. Christie's long-term future with the team may depend on the team's performance and progress in the 2026-27 season.

The takeaway

The Kings' decision to retain Doug Christie as head coach despite a dismal season signals the organization's commitment to stability and continuity, even in the face of adversity. The team's front office believes Christie can help guide the rebuild, provided he is given a healthier roster and more favorable circumstances.