The Sacramento Kings announced the mutual departure of General Manager Monte McNair, marking the end of a significant era for the franchise. After five seasons at the helm, McNair’s leadership transformed the Kings, culminating in a historic turnaround that ended a 16-year playoff drought. McNair’s departure has been confirmed after the recent departure of Wes Wilcox. Wilcox recently accepted a new position as the general manager of the University of Utah’s men’s basketball team.
During his time with the Kings, McNair earned a reputation for sound management and an innovative spirit. This past NBA season, he led the team to a franchise-best 48-34 record. That exceptional run of form earned them a place in the playoffs. It’s an accomplishment that helped him win the 2023 NBA Executive of the Year. Under his guidance, the Kings pulled off one of the greatest upsets of all time. They cracked 40 wins in three straight campaigns, something the franchise hadn’t done since the 2005-06 season.
The franchise’s performance improved significantly under McNair’s leadership. Prior to his appointment, the Kings were at an unfortunate crossroads. Their win percentage of only .362 from the 2006-07 season until his arrival was the second worst in the entire NBA during that time. McNair finished his tenure as Commissioner with a .488 win percentage. This stat just goes to show how much he can improve the team and even instill a winning culture.
McNair’s departure was finalized after the team’s season-ending loss to the Dallas Mavericks in the play-in tournament, a bitter end to a transformative season for the Kings. His work did more than renew the roster — it brought enthusiasm back to a fan base that had spent decades waiting for a winner to emerge.
As Sacramento writes its next chapter, they will look to continue advancing the foundation McNair started. His influence on the organization is undeniable, and the challenges ahead will require new leadership to maintain the momentum he generated.
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