Killian Hayes celebrated a new two-year contract with the Sacramento Kings after contributing 16 points and eight assists in Sunday’s 116-111 win over the Utah Jazz. The point guard highlighted the confidence the organization has shown in young players.
“I feel like we all put a lot of work in and they see that, and then they give us a lot of confidence to just go out there and be ourselves and just play hard,” Hayes said, reflecting on his experience since joining the Kings.
Hayes described his journey back to the NBA as a process of self-belief. “There was ups and downs, but I just wanted to bet on myself… trusting my work, trusting every game, just putting myself in that position to get back here,” he explained.
Playing alongside DeMar DeRozan impressed Hayes. “It’s my first time really seeing DeMar up close like that and man, what one hell of a player… he gives us buckets all game and a lot of gravity,” he said. He also praised the guidance from veteran teammates: “They talk to us a lot, they teach us a lot. As a young player, I just got to be a sponge and learn as much as I can.”
Hayes noted his improved shooting confidence in Sacramento. “I’ll trust my shot… I just needed something to fall in. Today they did, so I’ll keep getting more shots up and keep it going,” he said after hitting four of six three-pointers.
On his approach to leadership, Hayes emphasized poise. “You always got to stay even-keeled. You can’t be too high, never too low… guys look to you to set the pace and the tone,” he said.
His chemistry with fellow Frenchman Maxime Raynaud has been immediate. “It’s cool… we get along really well. Another French guy with a great touch around the rim. As a point guard, it’s easy to play with someone like that,” Hayes said.
Hayes also embraced Sacramento’s game-day traditions, calling lighting the Golden 1 Center beam “a great thing for the city and just a great culture… I’m looking forward to lighting it every single time.”
Hayes’ return to the Kings follows a season of transitions, including a September signing with Cleveland, a G League stint with the Charge, and two 10-day contracts in Sacramento. Since March 5, he has started multiple games, demonstrating steady growth and contributing to the Kings’ recent four wins in five outings.
