The Sacramento Kings and Visit California reinforced their growing engagement in India through a series of youth-focused community initiatives and participation in BUDX NBA House India in New Delhi. Representing the Golden State and its capital city, the collaboration builds on the team’s historic 2019 visit to Mumbai, when the Kings played the first NBA games in India, and highlights a long-term commitment to nurturing the sport and building meaningful regional connections.
Throughout the week, the partners engaged directly with local communities through programmes designed to inspire young athletes and strengthen the country’s growing basketball culture. On May 8, the Kings and Visit California supported a community basketball experience at BSES Basketball Academy. Led by basketball organisers and content creators Lionel Ngotchi Kab, Dhruv Barman, and Jai Sachdeva, the Park Takeover welcomed around 200 attendees, including youth athletes and influential voices from India’s expanding basketball community. The event featured influencer-led games, skills challenges, interactive fan experiences, and live entertainment by the Kings Dancers and Slamson. Giveaways and on-court activations further amplified the atmosphere while spotlighting the Academy’s mission to create sustainable basketball development opportunities for underserved youth.
In India, Visit California continues to strengthen its presence, inspiring Indian travellers to explore the state’s diverse experiences and deepening cultural ties through sports, entertainment, and tourism. As a year-round destination, California offers an unmatched variety of landscapes, from coastal drives and wine country to theme parks, outdoor adventures, and a vibrant farm-to-table culinary scene, making it a unique holiday destination with endless opportunities for exploration.
Caroline Beteta, President & CEO, Visit California, shared, “As the Ultimate Playground, California offers an unmatched blend of sports, entertainment and lifestyle. Visit California’s partnership with the Sacramento Kings and NBA India is an exciting way to showcase that spirit while strengthening our connection with India’s vibrant and growing community of basketball and travel enthusiasts.”
With a unique cultural connection to India through team owner Vivek Ranadivé, the first Indian-born owner in NBA history, the Kings continue to demonstrate their commitment to long-term investment in the country’s basketball ecosystem by supporting youth development initiatives, fostering community connections, and building strategic partnerships that drive lasting impact.