Before the start of each season, point guard Beno Udrih likes to get away. He disappears for a moment of clarity and a chance to prepare himself mentally for a grueling NBA season.
But there was something different about Udrih's vacation last week in Maui. The uncertainty he has experienced leading up to previous training camps was gone. Instead, he enters Kings training camp, which opens today with media day, feeling confident and prepared.
"For a long time, I didn't feel comfortable going into the preseason and training camp," Udrih said Saturday while signing autographs at Arden Fair Mall. "But I'm feeling good right now."
That's because the fifth-year player, who was a career backup until last season, signed a five-year deal with the Kings in July believed to be worth approximately $32 million.
That was exactly the kind of confidence builder Udrih needed after being traded last October from San Antonio to Minnesota, where he was quickly waived.
"I've been working out for the last month and a half and I feel ready for training camp," Udrih said. "I can't wait to get to know my teammates even more than I did last year. We want to go and win some games."
Goodwill visit – A trip to Maui wasn't on Francisco García's itinerary leading up to training camp, but a trip to China was.
García joined Kings international scout Jack Mai and others last week to offer assistance to victims of the Sichuan earthquake that killed nearly 70,000 people in May.
"I went to visit the people," said García, who signed a five-year extension with the Kings last Thursday. "It was sad to see that. I got a chance to talk with some kids and do a little minicamp over there. That was great."
Thompson feels at home – Rookie Jason Thompson said he used the Kings' practice facility over the summer while settling into Sacramento and preparing for his first NBA training camp.
"Talking to a lot of veterans has helped," Thompson said. "Shareef (Abdur-Rahim) has been helping us out. He's been motivating a lot of young guys like myself."
Abdur-Rahim announced his retirement last week, concluding a 12-year playing career, but not stepping away from the organization. Basketball president Geoff Petrie said he plans to add the 2000 Summer Olympian to the Kings' coaching staff or use him in another capacity.
Call The Bee's Melody Gutierrez, (916) 326-5521.
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