The Shaq concept in SacTown

Yesterday, the Sacramento Kings announced that someone has bought in as part of the new ownership group led by Vivek Ranadive.

That person is a familiar presence for old Kings fans. Who can remember this quote?

"We're not worried about the Sacramento Queens. Not at all. I'm not gonna be doing this all year, going back and forth with them. Nobody cares that we won last year, this is a new year, so we just need to focus on a new year. Like I said, I'm not worried about the Sacramento Queens. Write it down, take a picture, send it to them. I don't care."

Well... Things are now looking up, as Dr. O'Neal is now part-owner of the Kings.

Of course, he had to address that quote in the press conference earlier this morning. He apologized and explained that it was a marketing ploy.

Now, as of the moment, he has one major task. That task is to be a mentor to DeMarcus Cousins. The big man from Kentucky is at the cusp of snagging an extension, which he deserves given the talent and capability he has on the floor.

However, coupled with that talent is his notoriety and reputation as a headcase. Shaq referred to how Phil Jackson helped him during his playing career and he hopes to impart that knowledge to him. He already has touched base with Cousins before the press conference, if you checked the Sacramento-related timelines since the initial announcement. He also adds that he won't micromanage and he'll let the basketball people (Pete D'Alessandro, Chris Mullin, Michael Malone) run the show.

Also on that announcement, both he and Ranadive were confident about that brand new arena that they want to build to replace Sleep Train Arena. (Yes, there is a possible vote, but considering the bad press it got after the spurned other bidder tried to finance the "No" vote...) The plan is to make that arena 100% green and technologically advanced. Shaq referred to the concept using your phone being what you just need in entering the arena (tickets, directions, etc.). Considering you have a Silicon Valley guy as the big boss, not surprised here.

On the court, it's going to be an interesting mix. We will see when camp begins. Off the court, things are getting better. Woo-wee.