Markelle Fultz, the No. 1 overall pick in the 2017 NBA Draft, returned to the league on Friday night, making his debut for the Sacramento Kings in a 132-108 loss to the Golden State Warriors.

Markelle Fultz impresses in long-awaited NBA comeback for Kings

In nine minutes of action, Fultz impressed with an efficient 4-of-5 shooting performance, finishing with eight points and one assist.

The 26-year-old had been sidelined since the end of the 2023-24 season after being waived by the Orlando Magic. Following rehabilitation and careful consideration of his next move, he signed with the Kings shortly before the All-Star break.

His return adds another layer to a career defined by perseverance, as injuries have repeatedly disrupted his trajectory since entering the NBA.

Despite the lopsided defeat, Fultz’s brief stint on the court offered encouraging signs. He looked healthy, confidently attacking the rim and showcasing his ability to finish through contact.

Late in the third quarter, he punctuated his performance with an emphatic fast-break dunk, providing a glimpse of the explosiveness that once made him a top prospect. While his minutes were limited, the outing was a foundation for his next steps in Sacramento.

The 6-foot-4 guard spent five seasons with the Magic, with the 2022-23 campaign standing out as a career-best.

That year, he averaged 14 points, 3.9 rebounds, 5.7 assists, and 1.5 steals per game while shooting 51.4 percent from the field. He started all 60 games he played, displaying a level of consistency that had eluded him in an injury-plagued career.

However, the 2023-24 season proved frustrating, as injuries limited him to 43 appearances. With his contract expiring, Orlando opted to let him explore free agency.

Sacramento’s decision to bring in Fultz followed the trade-deadline departure of De’Aaron Fox, leaving the Kings in need of backcourt depth. With Malik Monk forced into point guard duties, adding Fultz provided a natural ball-handler and defensive presence.

For Fultz, the opportunity is equally significant — a chance to carve out a role on a playoff-hopeful team while re-establishing himself as a reliable contributor.

Now, with the Kings, Fultz has a fresh start and an opportunity to prove he belongs in the league — and that his best basketball may still be ahead.