Goon Squad Classic is almost a go

Goon Squad Classic is almost a go
Image by Kevin Fippin

Pending Donté Greene’s signature, a charity basketball game for Sacramento is a go.

Appearing on the Carmichael Dave Show this afternoon, the Sacramento Kings forward said the Goon Squad Classic is scheduled for Sunday, November 20th at the UC Davis Pavilion, with tip-off planned for 6:30 PM PST.  Tickets are expected to go on sale Thursday, November 10th.

Greene said he was waiting on the recent negotiations between both sides to finish before signing a contract with the university.  But with NBA owners and players unable to reach a new collective bargaining agreement, the game is an all but certainty.

The Kings forward also added some new names to the list of participants.  Oklahoma City Thunder forward Kevin Durant will compete and play on Greene’s team.  Former Kings guard Kevin Martin, now with the Houston Rockets, has committed to the game, too.  Chandler Parsons, also with the Rockets, has confirmed to play as well.  Greene said he’s still working to convince Sacramento-native Matt Barnes along with teammate-to-be Jimmer Fredette to participate.

“I did talk to his manager, his assistant,” Greene said of Fredette. “And he said that he really wants to come out and play for the fans and get a chance to hang out with some of his teammates and what not.  But he has a busy schedule.  He’s a busy guy, so we’re just trying to get a yes from him.”

Greene also confirmed the participation of DeMarcus Cousins, Tyreke Evans, Hassan Whiteside, Darnell Jackson, Jason Thompson, Isaiah Thomas, Jonny Flynn and John Wall.

(Updated at 9:11 pm PST following latest labor news)

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