The Sacramento Kings have successfully ended their 16-year postseason drought, the longest in NBA history, with a decisive victory over the Portland Trail Blazers. On March 29, 2023, the Kings clinched their first playoff berth since 2006. They did so by dismantling the Trail Blazers 120-80 in a very impressive road performance. This win not only marked the end of the longest playoff drought in NBA history but the longest active drought among the four major American sports leagues: NFL, NBA, MLB, and NHL.
From the looks of things, the Kings’ travels back to the playoffs have been arduous and rocky. Then, following their most recent postseason berth in 2006, the franchise endured a 12-year playoffs drought, with the team unable to get back on track. As this drought continued, it became an increasingly historic drought, ultimately becoming the longest-standing active drought in all of the four major American sports leagues. The Kings, as we’ve noted previously, have built up a deep resilience and strong strategic foundation. As a result, they’ve consistently shattered their record-breaking historic dry spell.
In an interesting juxtaposition, the Kings' playoff absence was longer than the time since the introduction of Apple's iPhone in January 2007. At its launch, Steve Jobs described the iPhone as a "revolutionary and magical product that is literally five years ahead of any other mobile phone," highlighting how much technological and cultural change can occur within such a timeframe.
The Kings’ triumph against the Trail Blazers was emblematic of their reawakened attitude, one bent on changing the course of their franchise history. The all-star team of young WNBA talent really displayed their dazzling court creativity and plenty of heart. Their clinching moment came after beating Portland by a stunning 40 points.
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