- LaVine scores 36 points with 63.6% three-point accuracy
- Kings outscore Spurs by 20 in decisive second quarter
- Fox receives mixed reception in emotional Sacramento return
- Kings win 5 of last 6 despite missing two starters
The Sacramento Kings delivered a statement victory Friday night behind Zach LaVine's season-defining performance, overcoming De'Aaron Fox's emotional return to beat the San Antonio Spurs 127-109. LaVine's offensive explosion included 16 critical second-quarter points that transformed a six-point deficit into a commanding 14-point halftime advantage, showcasing why Sacramento aggressively pursued him in last month's three-team trade.
While all eyes focused on Fox's first game against his former team, LaVine stole the spotlight by connecting on 7 of 11 three-point attempts. The two-time All-Star has now scored 20+ points in six consecutive games, shooting a blistering 62.2% from beyond the arc during this stretch. His backcourt partner DeMar DeRozan contributed 22 points, demonstrating the scoring depth that's propelled Sacramento's rise in the Western Conference standings.
The Kings' roster resilience shone through despite missing Domantas Sabonis (ankle) and Sixth Man of the Year candidate Malik Monk (knee). Rookie Keegan Murray stepped up with 19 points, while Sacramento's defense held Fox to 16 points on 6-17 shooting. This victory underscores the team's adaptability – Sacramento has now won 11 of 15 home games when facing top-10 offenses this season.
San Antonio's silver lining came from rookie Stephon Castle (25 points) and Victor Wembanyama's bench presence. The French phenom traveled with the team for the first time since being diagnosed with deep vein thrombosis, though his timeline remains uncertain. The Spurs struggled to contain Sacramento's perimeter attack, surrendering 18 three-pointers in their fourth consecutive road loss.
Fox's homecoming proved emotionally charged, with fans alternating between boos during play and a standing ovation following a first-quarter tribute video. The point guard acknowledged the crowd with a wave, later stating: 'This will always be special ground for me.' The Kings organization strategically leveraged the reunion narrative, resulting in their third consecutive sellout crowd and 12% merchandise sales bump for rivalry-themed apparel.
Both teams face quick turnarounds, with San Antonio visiting Minnesota's top-ranked defense Sunday while Sacramento travels to face the Clippers. The Kings' ability to maintain momentum without Sabonis could prove critical in their playoff push – they've gone 8-3 this season when both LaVine and DeRozan score 20+ points.
