Longtime Sacramento Kings Play-by-Play Announcer Departs

Kyle Draper's contract not renewed after 6 seasons with the team

Apr. 18, 2026 at 4:22am

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A cubist, geometric painting depicting a fragmented basketball game, with sharp, overlapping planes of color representing the dynamic energy of the sport.The departure of a longtime play-by-play announcer signals a shift in the Sacramento Kings' broadcast team, as the franchise seeks a new voice to connect with its passionate fanbase.Today in Sacramento

Kyle Draper, the longtime play-by-play announcer for the Sacramento Kings, has announced that Sunday's game was his last with the team. Draper, who has been the voice of the Kings for the past 6 seasons, shared the news on social media, thanking the fans and the city of Sacramento for their support during his tenure.

Why it matters

Draper's departure marks the end of an era for Kings fans, who have grown accustomed to his familiar voice calling the team's games. The move also highlights the often transient nature of sports broadcasting, where even long-tenured announcers can find their contracts not renewed.

The details

Draper, who joined the Kings in 2020, has been the team's primary play-by-play announcer for the past 6 seasons. In his announcement, he expressed gratitude for the opportunity to work with the organization and connect with the passionate Kings fanbase.

  • Draper's last game as the Sacramento Kings' play-by-play announcer was on Sunday, April 17, 2026.

The players

Kyle Draper

The former play-by-play announcer for the Sacramento Kings, who had been with the team for the past 6 seasons.

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What they’re saying

“Sunday was my last game as Sacramento Kings play by play announcer. After 6 seasons on the job, my contract is not being renewed. I want to thank all the Kings fans and the people of Sacramento for making me feel welcome.”

— Kyle Draper

The takeaway

Draper's departure is a reminder of the volatility of sports broadcasting, where even long-tenured announcers can find their roles changing. The Kings will now need to find a new voice to lead their television and radio coverage, a decision that will be closely watched by the team's passionate fanbase.