Kings GM Scott Perry backed rookie Alex Karaban after his scoreless Summer League debut, praising the former UConn star’s winning pedigree, toughness and long-term potential despite the slow start.
Going into the 2026-27 NBA season, if one thing the Sacramento Kings have got is a general manager who trusts the team.
After Alex Karaban’s scoreless NBA Summer League debut, Kings GM Perry was not concerned by any of it. Instead, he pointed to the rookie's winning background and character as reasons the organization remains confident in his long-term outlook.
Karaban finished with zero points in Sacramento's 91-85 victory over the Los Angeles Clippers on Thursday, shooting 0-for-6 from the field and 0-for-4 from 3-point range. The former UConn forward also recorded two rebounds, one assist, one block, and three turnovers in 24 minutes.
Perry said the performance needs to be viewed in context after Karaban missed the California Classic with a right ankle sprain and entered Thursday having practiced only once.
"This is his first game this summer, and he has only practiced one day really," Perry said during ESPN's broadcast. "He is a tremendous competitor, and we know he can shoot the basketball. We know he can contribute to winning."
Despite his shooting struggles, Karaban posted a team-best plus-12, suggesting his overall impact extended beyond the box score.
Sacramento traded into the first round to acquire Karaban after the Cleveland Cavaliers selected him with the No. 29 overall pick in the 2026 NBA Draft. The Kings sent the No. 32 pick and a future second-round selection to Cleveland to complete the deal.
Perry said Karaban's resume at UConn made him an ideal fit for the culture Sacramento is trying to build.
"I have always believed that the more players you can get on your roster who have come from winning programs, that matters," Perry said. "They understand sacrifices. They understand the team nature of this game."
Karaban left UConn as one of the most accomplished players in program history. He won two national championships, started in three title games, and finished his career as the Huskies' all-time leader in games played, games started, minutes played, victories, and made 3-pointers. He also scored 1,880 career points, ranking sixth in school history.
Perry also praised the influence of UConn coach Dan Hurley in preparing Karaban for the NBA.
The Kings' general manager added that Sacramento evaluates prospects beyond talent, relying on six organizational pillars: competitiveness, toughness, teamwork, accountability, professionalism, and discipline.
"You talk about a poster child for the six pillars," Perry said. "He is that."
Karaban's first Summer League outing may not have reflected the shooting ability that helped make him a first-round pick, but Sacramento believes his intangibles and track record of winning matter more than one scoreless performance.
The Kings return to Summer League action Sunday against the Washington Wizards, when Karaban will look to build on his debut after returning from injury.
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