Kings’ TV play-by-play man Kyle Draper says contract won’t be renewed

Kings play-by-play man Kyle Draper won’t be returning for a seventh season, he announced on social media. 

That news came quickly, just two days after the regular season ended. Or maybe one day. Either way, Draper said his contract isn’t being renewed.

“Sunday was my last game as Sacramento Kings play-by-play announcer,” Draper wrote. “After 6 seasons on the job, my contract is not being renewed. I want to thank all the Kings fans and the people of Sacramento for making me feel welcome. 

“Your passion and love for your team was felt every night I walked into Golden 1 Center. And I’ll always hold the love you showed me close to my (heart). Sacramento became home for me and I hope you could feel I was 100% invested. I was with you every step of the way.”

The Kings had a terrible year, again, and Draper was charged with sort of putting lipstick on a bad product. He did an admirable job. You’d think it won’t take long for him to resurface, perhaps even in the NBA.

“As far as what’s next?? Stayed tuned,” Draper wrote. “Whatever is next, I’m going to bring the same passion and love for the community I showed here in Sacramento!!!

Meanwhile, Sacramento also uses Mark Jones in that role, and with Jones leaving ESPN, the Kings job is expected to be his on a full-time basis (though nothing is official on that front).

Before joining the Kings and NBC Sports California in 2020, Draper had worked for NBC Sports Boston as a studio host for Celtics games. He has been very open and inspirational in regularly sharing his sobriety journey.