Last Updated on June 16, 2026 by Mat Diekhake

The Sacramento Kings have one of the longest ownership histories in the NBA, dating back to the franchise’s origins as the Rochester Royals in 1945. Over the decades, ownership changes have coincided with the team’s moves from Rochester to Cincinnati, Kansas City, and ultimately Sacramento.

Original Ownership Groups (1945–1983)

The franchise began as the Rochester Royals, owned by a series of local business investors led by Lester Harrison. During this era, the team won the NBA championship in 1951 and later relocated to Cincinnati in 1957. Ownership changed several times as the franchise evolved through its Cincinnati Royals and Kansas City-Omaha Kings years.

The Jacobs Family (1983–1998)

Businessman Jim Thomas sold the Kings to a group led by Greg Lukenbill in 1983, helping keep the franchise in Kansas City before its move to Sacramento in 1985. In 1988, real estate developer James B. Jacobs became the controlling owner. Under the Jacobs family’s ownership, the Kings established themselves in Sacramento and built a loyal fan base despite limited on-court success.

Joe and Gavin Maloof (1998–2013)

The Maloof family purchased the Kings in 1998. Their ownership coincided with the most successful era in Sacramento basketball history, featuring stars such as Chris Webber, Peja Stojaković, Mike Bibby, and Vlade Divac. The Kings became perennial playoff contenders and reached the Western Conference Finals in 2002.

However, financial challenges and relocation discussions marked the later years of Maloof ownership. Several attempts were made to move the franchise before a local effort kept the team in Sacramento.

Vivek Ranadivé Ownership Group (2013–Present)

In 2013, a group led by technology entrepreneur Vivek Ranadivé purchased the Kings, ending relocation efforts and securing the franchise’s future in Sacramento. Ranadivé became the team’s majority owner and has overseen significant investments in the organization, including the development of Golden 1 Center and efforts to return the team to playoff contention.

The Kings ended the NBA’s longest active playoff drought in 2023, marking a major milestone during the Ranadivé era.

Sacramento Kings Owners at a Glance

  • Original Ownership Groups (1945–1983)
  • James B. Jacobs Family (1988–1998)
  • Joe and Gavin Maloof (1998–2013)
  • Vivek Ranadivé Ownership Group (2013–Present)

The Kings’ ownership history reflects the franchise’s journey across four cities and multiple eras, culminating in long-term stability under Vivek Ranadivé in Sacramento.