De’Aaron Fox drains the go-ahead bucket
Sacramento Kings’ rookie De’Aaron Fox has been nothing short of a highlight reel this season. His blazing speed has left defenders in his dust as he’s exploded to the basket for more than a fair of flashy above the rim finishes.
On Thursday night, Fox battled with shaky shooting to find the bottom of the net, but drilled a clutch bucket in the fourth quarter to put the Kings ahead. His timely basket added another moment to his growing index of top plays and the rookie came away as the hero of the game in a 109-108 tightrope triumph over the Philadelphia 76ers.
Fox has drawn comparisons to fellow Kentucky Wildcat alumni John Wall, and rightfully so. He posses similar bounce and court vision to the superstar point guard, but it’s his lightning-fast first step that puts his potential on par with the electrifying Wizards’ floor general.
With his thrilling play, Fox is quickly placing himself in Sacramento Kings rookie folklore. Although a small sample size, Fox has tied Sacramento legend Jason Williams’ rookie record of 60 assists through 12 career games. While Williams never rose to stardom in the NBA, Fox has a legitimate chance to become something special.
The speedy playmaker must work on adding muscle to his frame and finding a more consistent jump shot, but he has all the physical and mental tools necessary to take the league by storm. Fox isn’t afraid of the moment, and he’s got a chip on his shoulder after being passed on by four other teams in the first round. Don’t be surprised in five years if he turns out to be the best player of the loaded 2017 draft class.
