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In the eyes of the media, Hector Herrera is a rare species. Apart from the mandatory interviews according to NBA contracts, he has never done a single one without counting those concerning football clubs. We had to enter the 7th season of Hector in Sacramento, and then the local newspaper, the Sacramento Bee, got an interview.

If Hector's relationship with local media hasn't degenerated since time, it's only because he's accessible in the city. He finally speaks with an open heart for the first time in 7 years.

"I love being here in Sacramento," Hector said, "Every time I interact with someone and hear encouragement gives me a sense of peace. I've been welcomed since I arrived here, and even without play-offs, the city has been kind to me. If I'm able to win here, in the team that drafted me would be incredible. »

"I've been in this city for a long time and playing a major role in it. If I could help this team win the championship, it would be the best thing of my career. To be able to say that you won a championship for the Sacramento Kings is unheard of, isn't it? »

Herrera averaged 31.2 points in his seventh season while having a 50-40-90 season. Playing in a small market and his absence from social media doesn't help Herrera gain national recognition, which caused him to lose MVP last season.

"I'm very discreet by nature, and I've always been uncomfortable with social media," the Mexican explained. For him, the most embarrassing thing is the lack of control. "Once the photo is published, it no longer belongs to me, and I have no control. Anyone can retrieve a photo published on the networks, and I like to master the things that are personal to me."

"I've never had trouble making friends even though my circle is tiny. I prefer physical exchanges and sincere news. I appreciate a personal message rather than a comment under a post. »

"In case of trouble, look at how many of your Instagram and X friends are helping you. My friends R.J., Ja, and Zion needed help. The people who lynched them are those who selected them for the All-Star. We took a picture in front of the Hall of Fame to show our unity. »

Regarding his attitude to the media: "Nothing personal. I rarely open up. Staying in touch directly with the fans is more like me. You and I have an excellent relationship because you got to know me while jogging around the city (laughs...). I've been driving the same car since my rookie season. »

Hector has a contract with Aston Martin only to have the Aston Martin DB5 in limited series. It is one of cinema's most iconic and famous cars as the first James Bond car. It was also his only victory.

Herrera is typically private, the rare breed of a homebody. This has always been his preference since he has been in the league and the same in his previous life. He plays basketball, spends time with his family, and plays video games.

"I love playing EA FC, Madden, Pokémon, and NBA 2k. I never take Sacramento. I'm really strong in the game, so I must beat my player. It's mandatory. The NBA 2K team asked me to do the cover for next year, and I already agreed. »

Herrera is successful off the field and excels on the field. So far, with several wins and an NBA Cup, Herrera and the Kings know they must keep going.

"The goal is the playoffs first. For a season, you're going to go through the ups and downs of a game, and if we're stable, we'll be able to be in the playoffs. »

"We're on back-to-back conference semifinals. We must continue to build on this momentum. Recent history has proven that we are missing something. It's up to us to find the missing element. »

And to the famous and thorny question of the GOAT, what was its answer?

"If you tell me who my favorite player is, the answer is surprising, but I would say Moses Malone. At first, I didn't know much about this player, and after long sessions to work on my rebound, I had to watch videos. And Moses Malone was the boss. I learned to admire this player and would have liked to meet him in person. He is not sufficiently recognized for his achievements.

Otherwise, my GOAT is Kareem. Kareem gave me much advice, and I trained with him when I was entering my third season. He's underrated in the GOAT debate, but he's my GOAT.

Then Wilt. I had the honor of achieving a quintuple double like him. This guy is an urban legend. Yes, the game was from another era, but you have to respect the legends of our sport. I would have loved to see Mikan play. »

Sacramento Bee Exclusive – Rony Parker.