Kings Snap 14-Game Losing Streak vs Spurs with 104-99 Win
Nov 13, 2018, 12:00 AM | Updated: Jan 4, 2019, 11:36 am
(Photo by Rocky Widner/NBAE via Getty Images)
by Matt George – Sports 1140 KHTK Reporter
In their last 14 meetings, the San Antonio Spurs have had the Sacramento Kings’ number. Seven straight times the Kings had fallen to Greg Popovich’s dynasty on their home floor. But not Monday night. This Kings team has been different so far this young season, and they love to prove people wrong. With the 104-99 victory inside the Golden 1 Center tonight, the Kings finish their tough four game home stand 2-2 and have eight wins in their first 14 games.
“We are going into every game this year feeling like we can win,” said Kings guard De’Aaron Fox. “People starting to take notice. We (aren’t) an easy win.”
Fox’s improved skills as a three point shooter and floor general are a major contributor to the strong start. After his 19 points and seven assists in Monday’s win, Fox shooting percentage has improved to 49% from the field and 41% from beyond the arc.
It wasn’t all Fox thought tonight. Six different Kings finished with double-figures scoring, including a breakout 22 points for Bogdan Bogdanovic. In just his 3rd game back from surgery this summer, Bogi shot over 50% and provided some much-needed scoring with the 2nd unit.
“I approach every game the same way. First couple games I was waiting for something to happen,” said Bogdanovic, “I think I adjusted more (today). It’s a totally different approach this season. We are trying to make the playoffs this year. I know that sounds crazy to some people, but that’s our motivation.”
Harry Giles, after a 30-point single-game showcase with the Stockton Kings on Sunday, showed flashes of his star potential, scoring a career high 12 points and pulling down six rebounds.
“Feels great,” said Giles, “I struggled early but went down (to Stockton), learned some things, and brought it back to the team. Had a lot of fun out there (tonight)”.
Head Coach Dave Joerger praised Giles’ defense against Spurs big LaMarcus Aldridge, who finished with just 14 points; “Harry hit him a lot. Harry is one of the strongest dudes in our (locker) room”.
The Sacramento Kings will have three days off before returning to action with back-to-back games on the road against Memphis and Houston. They return home next week against the Oklahoma City Thunder.
“For us to come out of here 8-6, that’s super for us” said Joerger, “Good confidence boost for the young guys”.