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Sacramento lines up investors in an effort to keep Kings

Sacramento isn't giving up its NBA team to Seattle without a fight.

Sacramento Mayor Kevin Johnson, a former NBA player, announced that a group of local investors pledged $1 million each to become minority owners and the city is pursuing a majority investor that will be necessary for any shot at keeping the franchise in California.

The team was sold by the Maloof brothers to a group led by Chris Hansen and Steve Ballmer, who plan to move the Kings to Seattle before the start of next season. The sale will need approval from the NBA Board of Governors, but it is expected to pass.

"Time is ticking," Johnson said. "I think all of you know that. I was supposed to be in Washington for the inauguration. I cancelled my trip. We have been here working our tail off, and everybody here in some shape or form is doing everything that we possibly can to keep our team here."

Johnson said he will have an opportunity to address the Board of Governors in April before the vote, but Sacramento's chances appear to be a long shot.