Sometimes all you need is an opportunity.
After joining the Sacramento Kings on a training camp deal in September, former Tar Heel Leaky Black has earned an extended stay with the franchise.
The Kings announced Thursday that Black's contract has been converted to a two-way deal, securing Sacramento's final available two-way roster spot. The deal will allow Black to split time between the Kings and their G League affiliate, the Stockton Kings.
Leaky Black continues to find a way to stick at the NBA level
Sacramento Kings Convert Leaky Black to Two-Way Contract
— Sacramento Kings (@SacramentoKings) October 15, 2026
📝➡️ https://t.co/A3EGf2h5K9 pic.twitter.com/pkWhZIsjmk
Black entered training camp needing to prove he deserved a spot in the organization, and his preseason performance certainly helped his case.
The former Tar Heel appeared in three preseason games for Sacramento, averaging 7.7 points, 3.7 rebounds, and 1.3 steals while shooting 53.8 percent from the field. He also made five of his eight three-point attempts.
His most significant opportunity came against the Portland Trail Blazers, as Black was inserted into the starting lineup and responded with 10 points, six rebounds, an assist and a steal over 32 minutes of action.
Now, that opportunity has turned into something more permanent.
Black already has NBA experience with both the Charlotte Hornets and Washington Wizards, appearing in 41 games over two seasons. He's averaged 4.3 points, 3.0 rebounds and 1.1 assists over that span.
As Tar Heel fans know very well, Black's value has never been solely determined by his scoring numbers.
During his five seasons in Chapel Hill, Black became a versatile defender who was routinely asked to guard the opposition's top perimeter threat. That versatility and willingness to impact the game without the ball have continued to earn him opportunities at the professional level.
Nothing is guaranteed for a player on a two-way contract, and Black will still have plenty to prove as the season progresses. However, Black has needed to prove himself throughout his entire professional basketball career, so this is nothing new for him.
We all know Leaky Black will continue to rise to the occasion.
