Kings’ Darius Acuff Jr. recalls takeaways from ‘studying’ NBA games at home

Kings’ Darius Acuff Jr. recalls takeaways from ‘studying’ NBA games at home originally appeared on NBC Sports Bay Area

Programming note: Kings Draft Review with Deuce Mason debuts at 4 p.m. PT on Sunday on NBC Sports California.

When it comes to performance on the hardwood, Kings rookie Darius Acuff Jr. proved what he can do. But while he was making history during his freshman season at Arkansas, the 19-year-old also was taking notes on what was to come.

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The No. 7 pick in the 2026 NBA Draft spoke with NBC Sports California’s Deuce Mason and explained how he approaches watching NBA games.

“Just trying to watch certain stuff, watch practices, watch full games,” Acuff told Mason. “Rewind and stuff when I see something. I kind of watch it like that, like I’m studying.”

The one thing that stood out while Acuff was watching film? The speed of the game.

“I was just watching the speed of it for sure,” Acuff said. “Seeing the different schemes, offense and defense. Just trying to learn knowing I’m going to be there a year later.”

But the rookie says the speed of the league fits exactly how he wants to play and how he feels is the optimal style for winning.

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“I think that’s the best way to play,” Acuff told Mason. “I think that’s how you score a lot of points. One of those moments can change the entire game. I love pushing the ball, especially when I get a rebound, I love getting out and going.”

The Kings can definitely use a boost to their offensive production; last season, Sacramento was 28th in scoring (111.0) and 20th in assists per game (25.5).

Acuff will get his first taste of NBA action on Saturday when he’s expected to make his California Classic debut.

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Publish date : 2026-07-05 08:39:00

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