San Antonio, TX – The prediction made by NBA legend Vince Carter regarding De'Aaron Fox's future in the league has taken a significant step towards fulfillment, as Fox has led the San Antonio Spurs to the Western Conference Finals in 2026. This achievement comes years after Carter's impactful mentorship of Fox during their shared time with the Sacramento Kings.
The official NBA account highlighted this journey, stating in a recent tweet, "> Vince Carter speaks on mentoring rookie De’Aaron Fox in Sacramento! Fast forward to 2026… Fox will play in the NBA Finals! @mrvincecarter15 🤝 @swipathefox." While the Spurs have reached the Conference Finals, the ultimate prediction of an NBA Finals appearance remains to be seen.
Vince Carter, who spent the 2017-18 season with the Sacramento Kings, took on a crucial veteran mentorship role for the then-rookie De'Aaron Fox. Carter's guidance focused on developing Fox's game and professional approach, with Fox himself acknowledging Carter as "basically another coach on the bench," according to reports from that period. This foundational mentorship proved instrumental in Fox's early career development.
Fox's tenure with the Sacramento Kings saw him evolve into a franchise cornerstone, leading the team to end a 16-year playoff drought in 2023 and earning an All-Star selection. He was also named the inaugural NBA Clutch Player of the Year in 2023, showcasing his ability to perform in critical moments. However, the Kings traded Fox to the San Antonio Spurs in a significant three-team deal in February 2025, marking a new chapter in his career.
With the San Antonio Spurs, Fox has adapted his role, playing alongside Victor Wembanyama and contributing as a key playmaker and scorer. His performance in the 2026 playoffs has been notable, including a series-clinching effort in the first round against the Portland Trail Blazers where he delivered 21 points and nine assists in Game 5. The Spurs' deep playoff run this season underscores Fox's continued growth and impact in the league.
