Webber Leads Kings, 125-106

The Sacramento Kings clinched their first division title since the franchise was based in Kansas City, Mo., in 1978-79. They also secured home-court advantage throughout the playoffs with a 125-106 victory Friday over the Clippers before a sellout crowd of 19,818 at Staples Center.

What’s more, they prevented the Clippers from recording their second winning season since relocating from San Diego before the 1984-85 season. With three games remaining, the best the Clippers (38-41) can do is finish .500 for only the third time in their L.A. history.

Six Kings scored 10 or more points, including three with 20 or more, led by Chris Webber’s 28. Sacramento, which won its 11th consecutive game, shot 60.9%, including 46.2% (six for 13) from behind the three-point arc.

“They’re a great team,” Clipper Coach Alvin Gentry said. “They’re going to have a legitimate chance to win the NBA championship.

“When you shoot 54% [as the Clippers did] on your home court, you’d think you’d have a good chance to win.”

Of Webber, Gentry added, “Right now, he’s the best player at his position [power forward] that there is in the NBA. He’s so versatile, and they put shooters around him, so it’s difficult to put any one guy on him.

“In our last two games against them, he’s made 16 of 21 and 12 of 19 against us, mainly on jump shots.”

Elton Brand led the Clippers with 24 points and Michael Olowokandi added 21.

TONIGHT

vs. Minnesota, 7:30

Fox Sports Net 2

Site--Staples Center.

Radio--KMPC (1540).

Records--Clippers 38-41, Timberwolves 48-31.

Record vs. Timberwolves--2-1.

Update--Clipper point guard Jeff McInnis left Friday’s game because of a sore right hip. His status for tonight’s game is uncertain. Minnesota has lost two games in a row. Kevin Garnett has led the Timberwolves in rebounding in 12 consecutive games.

Tickets--Sold out.

Elliott Teaford