Iman Shumpert Reflects on a Memorable Season with the Kings and ‘The Scores’
A Ten-Year Journey in the NBA
Iman Shumpert, a seasoned NBA veteran, has had his share of ups and downs throughout his career. Recently, he took to the airwaves on the All In podcast to reflect on his time with the Sacramento Kings, revealing an unexpected fondness for that chapter compared to his stints with the New York Knicks and Cleveland Cavaliers.
Shumpert’s candid remarks about his basketball journey shed light on his experience, particularly during the 2018-19 season that, despite not leading to a playoff berth, became a highlight in the Kings’ long history of struggles.
The Kings’ Resurgence in 2018-19
The Sacramento Kings were mired in a 16-season playoff drought, a challenging period that tested the patience of both fans and players alike. Yet, amid the prolonged struggle, the 2018-19 season stood out. Under the guidance of head coach Dave Joerger, the Kings achieved 39 victories, their highest win total since the 2005-06 season. This unexpected success was fueled, in part, by Shumpert’s arrival in a mid-season trade that sent George Hill to the Cavaliers.
Shumpert’s presence helped spark a dynamic, fast-paced style of play that quickly became the hallmark of the team. With a youthful core featuring De’Aaron Fox, Buddy Hield, Bogdan Bogdanović, Marvin Bagley III, and Willie Cauley-Stein, along with the savvy veteran Nemanja Bjelica, the Kings flourished. They finished fifth in the NBA in pace, demonstrating a commitment to pushing the ball up the floor regardless of the game situation.
‘The Scores’ Takes Shape
One of Shumpert’s lasting contributions to the Kings was coining the phrase ‘The Scores.’ This term encapsulated the team’s ethos of scoring quickly and effectively, and it resonated within the locker room and among fans. Shumpert embraced his role as a vocal leader, facilitating a sense of unity and purpose.
Reflecting on his time with the Kings, Shumpert expressed his relief at being able to play a more versatile role, saying, “People don’t understand how bad I hated that three-and-D role, I hated it. I think now I’m out of the league because I wouldn’t sign up for that. When I went to Sacramento, I was playing combo guard. Dave had me able to do my [stuff]. This is where I’m comfortable.”
Statistical Impact and Team Culture
During his 42 games with the Kings, Shumpert started in 40 of them, averaging 8.9 points, 3.1 rebounds, and 2.2 assists per game. Although those statistics may not leap off the page, his contributions extended beyond numbers. Shumpert had standout performances, including a memorable 26-point game against the Oklahoma City Thunder early in the season.
His enthusiasm for the team’s up-tempo approach was palpable: “We come, we try to score fast, we try to score at a high rate. We have a lot of young bodies. It’s cool to be on a team where we don’t know who’s going to score it,” Shumpert noted during the season.
The Trade That Changed Everything
However, the season took a downturn when Shumpert was traded to the Houston Rockets at the trade deadline for Alec Burks. Many insiders believe this move disrupted the team’s chemistry, as Shumpert had become a crucial mentor for the younger players. His departure left a void, and the Kings struggled to maintain their momentum down the stretch, ultimately missing the playoffs once again.
Despite the bittersweet ending, Shumpert’s reflections on his time in Sacramento reveal a genuine appreciation for the season’s camaraderie and excitement. While the Kings may not have made the postseason, the 2018-19 campaign remains a cherished memory for Shumpert and a testament to the team’s potential.
