While De’Aaron Fox’s return to Northern California following his trade to the San Antonio Spurs may have been a major storyline for others, the veteran guard downplayed its significance. “I haven’t. I’m not going to lie to you,” Fox said when asked if he had thought much about the moment leading up to the game.
The Spurs, already struggling with injuries after losing Victor Wembanyama for the season, fell to the Kings 127-109. Sacramento was also shorthanded, missing key players Domantas Sabonis and Malik Monk.
Before tipoff, the Kings honored Fox with a tribute video, a customary gesture for returning former players. While it didn’t stir deep emotions for him, he still appreciated the gesture. “I wouldn’t say I got emotional,” the 2023 All-Star admitted, though he acknowledged, “It was great. I was here for so long, almost a decade. I really do appreciate it.”
De’Aaron Fox reacts to homecoming
While Fox didn’t express strong emotions about his return to Sacramento, his overall remarks about the experience were positive, despite receiving some boos from the crowd.
“I think it was good. I enjoyed my time. I really enjoyed the fans,” Fox said of his seven and a half seasons with the Kings. “And you cheer for your team, so it was definitely good.”
Since the Spurs had already played in Sacramento earlier this season—winning 127-125 in a game where Victor Wembanyama recorded his lone triple-double—Fox likely won’t return to Golden 1 Center again until next season, as San Antonio continues to slip out of play-in contention.
“I hope I play 10-plus more years. So, I’ll be back. I’ll be here,” Fox said. “It’s definitely good to get the first one out of the way.”