The San Antonio Spurs are making waves as they kick off the post All-Star Break stretch, holding the second-best record in the NBA's Western Conference. De'Aaron Fox, one of the seasoned veterans on the squad, is clear about the journey ahead for the Silver and Black.
"Every game counts a little bit more, especially when you're talking about seeding and how close the West is. It's going to be fun," Fox remarked, highlighting the intensity of the playoff push.
Fresh off his second All-Star appearance, Fox stands out as one of the few Spurs with playoff experience. He acknowledges the unique challenges the team will face as they gear up for the postseason.
"It's definitely going to be an adjustment," Fox noted. "Even though they say otherwise, the games are officiated a bit differently as the playoffs approach. Our coaching staff has prepared us well to maintain our physical style and keep playing fast, even through the whistles."
"Every game counts a little bit more, especially when you're talking about seeding and how close the West is. It's going to be fun"⬇️
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-De'Aaron Fox w/#Spurs set for post All-Star Break portion of year
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The Spurs resume play riding the momentum of their longest winning streak of the season. While officially credited with eight consecutive wins in December, a loss to the New York Knicks in the NBA Cup Final during that stretch doesn't count toward their record. That defeat was sandwiched between two smaller winning streaks.
Fox emphasized the importance of their recent success: "That stretch was crucial for us, going into the All-Star break with momentum. We approached it like an eight-game season and went 7-1. It's the first time many of our guys are experiencing meaningful post-break basketball, so these games mean more."
Alongside Fox, Harrison Barnes brings a wealth of experience, having won a championship with the Warriors. Now in his 14th season, Barnes is a key veteran presence on a relatively young team.
"The mental part of the game is crucial," Fox explained. "Everyone deals with the physical demands, but staying mentally sharp and focused through a long season is what really gets you through."
With a 38-16 record, the Spurs are closer to the top-seeded Oklahoma City Thunder than the third-place Denver Nuggets. This positioning highlights the opportunity ahead for Fox and his teammates.
"For us, I think guys are ready and excited for it, for sure," Fox concluded, setting the tone for an exciting stretch run.