Kings Coach Christie Believes Sharp Will Become a Fan Favorite

Emanuel Sharp struggled in his preseason debut against the Los Angeles Lakers on Monday, but his defensive activity caught coach Doug Christie's attention.

Christie said he loves everything about the second-round draft pick and believes he'll become a fan favorite.

Sharp shot 2-for-11 in the Sacramento Kings' blowout loss, but his unwavering confidence stood out despite the poor efficiency. He shot when he was wide open and hustled on defense, competing at a high level.

The 22-year-old dove on a loose ball to seal a Lakers turnover and give the Kings an extra possession.

Coaches often reward players who compete every possession, and Sharp is building a strong case. His college coach, Kevin Sampson, instilled that mentality during his four-year tenure with the Houston Cougars.

Houston led the Big 12 in points allowed for three straight seasons: 57.6 in 2023-24, 58.7 in 2024-25 and 62.3 last season. Sharp played a significant role in the Cougars' defensive dominance, averaging 1.1 career steals.

The defensive identity hasn't changed in the big leagues. He averaged 2.8 steals in the California Classic and Las Vegas Summer Leagues.

Sharp had four steals in the Las Vegas opener against the Los Angeles Clippers and three in the consolation game against the Charlotte Hornets.

Fans appreciate good defense as much as good offense. It's evident when fans chant "DEFENSE" in the clutch, and the arena explodes when their team gets a stop.

That's Sharp's path to carving a role in Christie's rotation.

Sacramento's defense has never been its strength, and it has gotten worse over the years. The team finished with the third-worst defensive rating in NBA history.

Their defensive floor should improve as Keegan Murray and De'Andre Hunter return healthy. General manager Scott Perry signed Ben Simmons in early September, adding another versatile defender.

The Kings have the wings to taller players, but lack point-of-attack defenders. Nique Clifford is the best player filling that role, but there is little depth to support him.

Sharp matches that role, as he's pressured ball handlers throughout college and in the summer league.

Sacramento's 45th pick has earned praise throughout the offseason as the 2026 draft class' best defender, an instant-impact player and a potential sleeper for the All-Rookie team.

Christie said Sharp has to earn everything, and he was excited to see him play hard-nosed defense in the preseason. The second-round pick has a long journey ahead, and it'll be built on his defensive hustle.