NBA Postseason Droughts: A Historical Perspective on the Longest Waits

The Sacramento Kings' Historic Drought

Sacramento Kings fans endured a 16-year wait for postseason basketball, finally ending on March 29, 2023. The Kings secured their first playoff spot since 2006 with a commanding 120-80 victory over the Portland Trail Blazers. This marked the longest active postseason drought across the four major American sports leagues—NFL, NBA, MLB, and NHL.

A Look Back in Time

When the Kings last made the playoffs, the iPhone had yet to be introduced by former Apple CEO Steve Jobs. The smartphone revolutionized the tech world in January 2007, a testament to how long Kings fans had been waiting.

Top NBA Postseason Droughts

Here’s a detailed list of the longest postseason droughts in NBA history:

• Sacramento Kings: 16 years (2007-2022)
• Buffalo Braves/San Diego Clippers/Los Angeles Clippers: 15 years (1977-1991)
• Minnesota Timberwolves: 13 years (2005-2017)
• Golden State Warriors: 12 years (1995-2006)

Other Notable Droughts

• Phoenix Suns: 10 years (2011-2020)
• Dallas Mavericks: 10 years (1991-2000)
• Sacramento Kings: 9 years (1987-1995)
• Golden State Warriors: 9 years (1978-1986)
• Utah Jazz: 9 years (1975-1983)

Active Droughts

• Charlotte Hornets: 9 years (2017-2025)*
• Atlanta Hawks: 8 years (2000-2007)
• Los Angeles Clippers: 8 years (1998-2005)
• Denver Nuggets: 8 years (1996-2003)
• Vancouver Grizzlies/Memphis Grizzlies: 8 years (1996-2003)
• Washington Bullets: 8 years (1989-1996)*

*Active droughts are marked with an asterisk.

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