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The Sacramento Kings have announced that Doug Christie will step into the role of interim head coach following the departure of Mike Brown.

Christie, who has been an assistant coach with the Kings since the 2021-2022 season, is a familiar and respected figure within the organization.

His connection to the Kings runs deep, both as a coach and as a former player, making him a natural choice to guide the team during this transitional period.

Christie enjoyed a standout playing career with the Kings, spending five seasons with the team during the early 2000s, a period widely regarded as one of the most successful and exciting eras in franchise history.

As a key contributor, he was known for his defensive tenacity, playmaking ability, and leadership on the court, helping the Kings reach the playoffs multiple times during his tenure.

Following his retirement as a player, Christie transitioned into broadcasting, where he served as a commentator and analyst for Kings games over several seasons.

His articulate insights and deep understanding of the game endeared him to fans and provided him with a unique perspective on the team’s evolving identity.

Since joining the coaching staff in 2021, Sacramento’s ex-guard has worked closely with players and staff, developing a reputation as a hands-on mentor with a strong emphasis on fundamentals and team-oriented play.

His intimate knowledge of the organization’s culture, combined with his ability to connect with players, positions him well to lead the team as they navigate this challenging phase of the season.

As interim head coach, Christie will have the opportunity to make his mark and potentially earn consideration for a more permanent role, depending on the team’s performance moving forward.

The former broadcaster’s first challenge as interim head coach will be to address the team’s current struggles, including their 13-18 record and ongoing five-game losing streak.

With a wealth of experience and a deep connection to the franchise, Christie is uniquely equipped to take on this pivotal role and provide a steady hand as the Kings look to regroup and refocus for the remainder of the season.