Checking in with Sacramento Kings mascot Slamson, who’s now dominating NBA 2K games

With the NBA on hold, everyone in the basketball world is dealing with their down time in different ways. We spoke to Slamson, the high-flying lion and mascot for the Sacramento Kings, to see what he is up to during his self-quarantine.

First of all, we want to know how you’re holding up without NBA basketball. How is your morale these days?

My morale is great! I am working out every day, reading, doing yoga, sanitizing everything, and getting ready for when we play again. I am also partaking in people watching through my window – keep getting those walks in Sacramentans!

Are you still getting some basketball in your life? Playing NBA 2K? Watching reruns of games? Do you have a court at home?

Basketball is life so yes, I am social distancing by playing some NBA 2K at home so I can keep practicing my half-court shots.

Speaking of home, where exactly do you live? An apartment downtown, a house in the suburbs, or a palatial estate in the country? We know a lion needs some space to roam.

That’s a secret and I’m not lion!

Are you mostly staying inside? How about getting out for long walks or trips to the grocery store?

I am following the shelter-in-place guidelines but not letting myself get caged in.

And on the topic of lions in captivity, what are your thoughts on the “Tiger King” documentary?

I couldn’t make it 4 minutes into the first episode. The Lion King, though, now that’s some real entertainment.

And what about Dunkson? How is he holding up down in Stockton? Or do you guys live together in Sacramento? I always got a brotherly vibe, but I don’t want to assume any relation just because you are the only two basketball playing lions I know.

Dunkson is my roommate and we’re doing great sheltering in place! Although, he’s getting a little tired of losing to me in 2K …

Is there anyone else you interact with? Have you talked with the team recently?

Besides Dunkson, I have been on Zoom with some schools to help add some excitement to their at home-school days.

How are you with technology? I mean, you must need a special keyboard for those big paws at least, right?

I don’t want to say I’m a tech expert or anything, but I have pretty pawesome dexterity with the keyboard.

We also know that it’s not just about basketball for you. You must miss hyping up the crowd at the Golden 1 Center. Who are you hyping up while basketball is on hold?

I am really excited about our Kings Guard Gaming being in action with the NBA 2K League! Since I can’t hype up our squad in person, I’ve been sending them videos of me rollerblading around with my “Get Loud” sign. I’m a pump up purrfessional, after all.

What is your diet like these days? Are you eating too much or not enough? Are you working out or letting yourself go?

I’ve been staying in tip-top shape during these unique times to be ready when we hit the court again! I am working out every day (sometimes twice a day) and eating six small, well-balanced meals daily. Some of my favorite workouts include yoga, weight training, step aerobics, Tai Chi and Pilates.

And speaking of diet, what is yours in general? You’re a lion but you also work in urban California. Have you gone vegetarian or vegan since you started working for the Kings?

Even though I’m a lion, I love to eat lots fruits and vegetables! They really are good for you, kids!

And what are your favorite restaurants? We know supporting our food industry workers is important in this time. Where are you ordering take-out and delivery from?

Yes, I try to order out twice a week. There are so many delicious options in Sacramento to support!

And, uh… I don’t exactly know how to phrase this but… do lions even use toilet paper?

Two-ply — but don’t worry, I’m not hoarding any. Sharing is caring!

How are the rest of your supplies? Do you have enough paw sanitizer?

Since I’m sheltering in place, I am stocked up on soap so I can wash my paws thoroughly for at least 20 seconds.

What are your recommendations for Kings fans out there that don’t have their favorite team to watch?

Watch our esports team, Kings Guard Gaming! You can watch them live on Twitch (Twitch.tv/KingsGuardGG) and catch all the action on social media, too! @KingsGuardGG

Anything else you want to say to the people of Sacramento?

I would like to thank the first responders and health care workers who are working to protect us and care for those in need. And thank you to the grocery store, postal service and delivery workers who continue to do their jobs to support our community. To all Sacramentans, please practice shelter in place and social distancing. The more seriously that we take this, the more lives we will help save and the faster we can get back to normal. Can’t wait to see you at a future Kings game!