Optimized Version:
Kings coach Mike Brown is renowned for his commitment to holding his players accountable, so it’s only fitting that they returned the favor last season.
During an appearance on the “All the Smoke” podcast, Kevin Huerter was asked who was most likely to be late for the team bus. To everyone’s surprise, he named Brown. Huerter went on to divulge a friendly (or perhaps not-so-friendly) wager that Brown established as soon as he took over as head coach last season.
From the very beginning, Brown made it clear that any player who arrived late to team activities, including meetings, games, and practices, would be subjected to fines—no exceptions. Huerter confirmed that there were no warnings or second chances.
But when Brown himself showed up late, Kings guard Malik Monk turned the tables on the coach and meticulously documented every instance.
“Like any other team, we had a fine schedule. Each player would be fined individually for being late,” Huerter shared. “So Mike set the tone early on, and Malik held him accountable throughout the entire year. Down to the exact second, even before games and team meetings.”
“And of course, Mike would often be at a coach’s meeting, rushing from something. But according to Mike, the fines piled up to around $20,000 last year.”
When Brown speaks, his players listen attentively.
But this time, it seems that policy has come back to haunt him.
As the 2023-24 season gets underway, Brown—who serves as a prime example for the rest of the team—can rest assured that no one will be late for anything from now on.
![](https://beingsportsfan.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/10/3855c2a42d9cca183589cdc643f55c26-e1696513545969.jpg)
Emily Turner is your source for everything NBA. As a dedicated basketball enthusiast, she offers insights into NBA games, player highlights, trade rumors, and the league’s evolving dynamics. Emily’s love for the sport shines through in her comprehensive NBA coverage.