Here’s 2026 No. 45 pick Emanuel Sharp explaining why falling later in the draft to the Sacramento Kings ended up being a perfect fit.
(via Sactown Sports 1140):
Brenden Nunes: “When it came to draft process, I think a lot of people thought that you would go a little bit earlier. I’m curious, did you feel like you fell in the draft? Were you expecting to hear your name earlier?”
Sharp: “Nah, cuz it’s not about picks; it’s about fit. I feel like I could’ve gone earlier, but I might not be in the same situation. You know what I’m saying? I would rather go way later or undrafted with a team that really wants me than a team that would maybe take me on a two-way contract or a team that’s not as big on me at an earlier pick. I just feel like that doesn’t make sense. Scott [Perry] and Coach Doug Christie and the rest of the coaching staff, they really believe in me. So whether that’s pick 45, pick 60, or undrafted, I feel like Sacramento was where I was supposed to be and that’s exactly why I’m here.”
Brenden Nunes: “So, you wanted to go there during the process?”
Sharp: “It’s not even about wanting to go somewhere. It’s just about going wherever I’m wanted. I could’ve went earlier, but what’s the point of going earlier if it’s on a team that doesn’t fit as well? You know what I’m saying? I feel like when I got to Sacramento, they really gave me the big picture, and they got a plan for me and a vision. So, I think that’s more important than falling in the draft.”
