Anyone who knows about Arvydas Sabonis would understand why his son, Domantas Sabonis, wanted to change his jersey number. With 23 years in professional basketball, the 59-year-old built a spectacular and decorated resume that speaks volumes. But more to our point, he did so while rocking No. 11 on his jersey.The same number that the Kings’ 6’10 center/forward now wears with pride. But there was a teeny little problem.

Sacramento had retired No. 11 in honor of the late Robert Edris Davies. Or more popularly known as Bob Davies. No? Perhaps this will clarify things – ‘Harrisburg Houdini’. The Kings legend (then known as Rochester Royals), along with Bobby Wanzer (together, they were considered one of the best NBA backcourt duos of the early years) led the team to their first and only NBA championship in 1951. And when he retired from the professional scene as a player, the Royals retired the number.

From then, despite the various iterations – Cincinnati, Kansas City, and now Sacramento, they have upheld the tradition. Hence, it was necessary to get permission from Davies’ family. And they couldn’t be happier to do so!

“My siblings and I are so proud of our father and everything he accomplished throughout his legendary NBA career. He was a great influence on our family as well as many young aspiring athletes. He was definitely a man of true character. Given the Sabonis family’s special connection to number 11, we thought it was fitting to share our dad’s number with Domantas and wish him much success. We are thankful to the Kings organization and fans for their continued support,” Bob Davies’ daughter Camy Davies Keck, said.

And what was Domantas’ response to the permission and blessing he received from the Hall of Famer’s family?

Domantas Sabonis grateful for iconic No. 11 jersey honor

“The number 11 holds a special place in mine and my family’s lives, having worn it throughout my career in honor of my father,” Sabonis said in a statement. “I’m incredibly thankful to the Davies family for sharing number 11 with me and I look forward to building on the legacy of all those who wore it before me.”

Domantas Sabonis has been nothing short of an anchor for the Kings. He’s been a steady presence for the ‘Beam Team’ since his arrival, averaging 19.2 points, 12.9 rebounds, and 7.6 assists while shooting 59.9% from the field and 36.4% from downtown. And all this while playing 35 minutes per game!

And that wasn’t all. Last season saw him finish the season as the league leader in quite a number of categories – rebounds per game, total rebounds (1120), double-doubles (77), and triple-doubles (26), per NBA.com.

With the new jersey number and fresh energy, Domantas Sabonis is looking to take off from where the Kings ended last season. And go forward from there.