Joe and Gavin Maloof have been quiet since Tim Donaghy's allegations thrust the Kings into the center of the "Big Fix" controversy. While media outlets across the country tried to gauge the outrage of Kings fans, the typically candid Maloofs remained mum. Now, through a statement, the Kings owners say they were disappointed with officiating during Game 6 of the 2002 Western Conference finals, but in no way believe Donaghy's claims.
Here is the official statement from Joe and Gavin Maloof:
"We have received numerous e-mails and phone calls from fans who are very upset by recent news reports regarding Game 6 of the 2002 Kings-Lakers playoff series. We believe we have the best fans in the NBA and are so grateful for their continued passion and support.
We certainly didn't like all the calls in that Game 6 and were extremely disappointed with the outcome. However, we have been associated with the NBA for many years and feel in no way that the League was conspiring for the Kings to lose.
That 2002 Kings team was a memorable collection of players that won 61 games and captured the hearts and minds of fans throughout the world with their entertaining, innovative and successful style of team play. Looking ahead, we remain focused on bringing another championship-caliber team to Sacramento."
Check Friday's edition of The Sacramento Bee for more.
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