Houston Rockets guard Fred VanVleet isn't jumping on the San Antonio Spurs championship hype train just yet. Despite the Spurs boasting an impressive 48-18 record, second-best in the Western Conference, VanVleet advises a cautious approach.
"Have they [won] a playoff series? Everybody slow the f*ck down. It’s a marathon. Not a sprint... They're having a good year, but what’s the finish line, though? It’s easy to say all this in the moment."
— ClutchPoints (@ClutchPoints) March 14, 2026
Fred VanVleet on the Spurs hype 🤔pic.twitter.com/oVAkCRqBE2
On the latest episode of the "Unguarded" podcast, VanVleet shared his perspective, reflecting on the past few seasons. "I can only speak for the last three years.
We outperformed them the last two years, right? So, they're ahead of us now, sure," he remarked.
VanVleet questioned the Spurs' postseason track record, asking if they've made any significant playoff strides. When informed they haven't, he emphasized the journey to true contention.
"Everyone needs to slow down. It's a marathon, not a sprint.
They're ahead in the standings, and sure, you can make judgments based on appearances or player comparisons. Wemby's otherworldly, Castle's solid, Harper's showing promise-I played with his brother in Toronto.
Fox was a stellar addition, and they're having a great season, but what's the ultimate goal? It's easy to talk big now."
This season, San Antonio has lived up to much of the buzz, winning the season series against Houston 3-1, capped by a commanding 145-120 victory at home. VanVleet acknowledged that outcome candidly.
"They really handed it to us. But I don't recall everyone celebrating when we were on top."
VanVleet is still sidelined, recovering from a torn ACL suffered last September. His absence is felt as Houston remains in the playoff race, sitting third in the conference with a 41-25 record.
The Rockets are gearing up to host the Los Angeles Lakers on Monday at 9:30 p.m. ET on NBCSN and Peacock, followed by another matchup on Wednesday at 9:30 p.m.
ET on ESPN-a crucial series for the No. 3 seed.
Meanwhile, the Spurs aim to keep their momentum going against the Charlotte Hornets at 3:30 p.m. ET on Prime Video.