With the offseason already in full effect for several teams, the Sacramento Kings have begun planning for one of their most popular traditions. The California Classic is coming back, giving a variety of young players a chance to show off their talents while teams plan for next season.
The California Classic is back. Kings and Warriors will both host games during a 3-day stretch - July 4, 5 & 6. pic.twitter.com/ElTHYWabwK
— James Ham (@James_HamNBA) April 29, 2026
For the eighth time, the Kings will host the California Classic Summer League, this time with the Warriors acting as co-host. A total of seven teams will participate, with six games happening in Sacramento and six in San Francisco from July 3 through the 6.
Sacramento games will happen on July 4, 5, and 6, and will feature the Kings, Nets, Warriors, and Bucks. The San Francisco games will feature the Warriors, Lakers, Heat, and Spurs, and will take place on July 3, 5, and 6. That's twelve games in two cities across four days of basketball.
The Kings and Warriors will also face off on July 5 in the Battle of NorCal, with the winner receiving the Mitch Richmond Trophy. It's all a cooperative extension of the regional rivalry between the two teams. At the same time, it also serves an important purpose in development for all teams involved.
Getting ready for the 2026-2027 NBA Season
The California Classic features rookies from the 2026 NBA Draft, second-year talent, and other players looking for spots. There's also a mix of NBA and G League players. It's an opportunity for teams like the Kings, who need to make big decisions, to get more information on their options.
Sacramento has several free agent contracts to work on, as well as three draft picks coming their way in 2026. On top of that, there are at least four or five players they will be trying to trade before the next season begins. The Kings are hoping to make a lot of moves this offseason.
The seven teams involved in the California Classic are all potential trade partners for the Kings. This is a chance for everyone involved to assess, start/continue conversations, and potentially make plans for the future. It's a huge opportunity for everyone involved in the tournament.
Naturally, the Kings don't need to run someone like Russell Westbrook through his paces to figure out the value he brings to the table. That being said, it wouldn't be a surprise to see him in the stands. For someone like Daeqwon Plowden, this tournament is incredibly important for his next steps.
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