When you're talking about the top defensive point guards in the world right now, the name Thomas Walkup has to be in the mix. And for a team like the Sacramento Kings that need a gritty veteran floor general who can defend like a madman, this living EuroLeague legend is an unexpected choice.
If a name like Walkup's is going to be discussed by any NBA franchise, they have to know what an uphill battle they are in. He has been clear that he is dedicated to the EuroLeague, going so far as getting Greek citizenship to play on their national team. That has recently changed to an extent.
Born and raised in the USA, Walkup did declare for the NBA draft in 2016 but wasn't selected. He played one season for the Windy City Bulls before heading to Europe and never looked back. After nearly a decade there, a lot of NBA teams are probably wishing they'd taken him more seriously.
Becoming a EuroLeague legend
Without question, Walkup is one of the most respected defenders in the EuroLeague orbit. He was named the EuroLeague's Best Defender in 2024 and was the steals leader in 2023. He's also a three time Greek League Defensive Player of the Year and a three time LKL Defensive Player of the Year.
Walkup has won the EuroLeague championship once, the Greek League championship four times, and the LKL championship three times. That doesn't even get into all of the cup tournament championships he has under his belt from his extensive European career.
As such, the man is not going to leave all of that behind for a fourth-string point guard position in the NBA. That's why a team like the Kings, should they choose to put the work into wooing him back to America, need to look at him as a foundational player who can elevate their team.
Walkup's elite defense fits the Kings' program
The Kings will likely be starting rookie Darius Acuff Jr. at point guard with Ben Simmons as his backup. There are very real scenarios where Acuff buckles under the pressure or Simmons suffers a season-ending injury yet again. Point guard is the only position where Sacramento lacks depth.
To be clear, Walkup is not your depth guy. You bring in to lead the squad, shut down your opponents, and grind out wins. Acuff has a lot of development to do. Walkup is not going to mentor him, but he would keep the trains running while Acuff gets his feet under him and figures out his game.
Considering Walkup just signed a massive deal to play for Dubai Basketball after an acrimonious end to his time with Olympiacos, he isn't coming to the NBA any time soon. But he remains an example of why teams like the Kings need to be paying close attention to the EuroLeague when rebuilding.
Add us as a preferred source on Google