De’Aaron Fox has emerged as one of the defining stories of the 2026 NBA Finals, not just for his production, but for the physical sacrifice he has made to keep the San Antonio Spurs competitive on the league’s biggest stage. Playing through a lingering injury to the index finger on his right hand, Fox has continued to suit up despite concerns that the issue could eventually require surgery. His willingness to push through pain has become a symbol of commitment for a Spurs team chasing a title against elite opposition.
From the opening game of the Finals, Fox has worn special protection on the injured finger, which was hurt during the first round of the playoffs. Instead of choosing an immediate operation, he and the Spurs opted for a conservative treatment plan in order to avoid losing a key contributor during the postseason. That approach has meant ongoing pain management, including injections and intensive physical therapy, as he tries to remain effective without worsening the injury.
According to sources close to the organization, the Spurs have had to encourage Fox to cut back on practice minutes to reduce the risk of aggravating the problem. Even so, Fox has resisted being limited, insisting that the Finals are the moment players spend all season preparing for. His approach has drawn attention from both the coaching staff and fans, who have praised his intensity and competitiveness on every possession.
The injury is understood to be a fissure in the ulnar collateral ligament of his right index finger, a condition that under normal circumstances would typically be treated with surgery. Delaying the procedure carries risks, but Fox has prioritized helping his team over addressing the issue immediately. Spurs coach Gregg Popovich has managed Fox’s workload carefully while still allowing him to maintain his rhythm on the court. Popovich has publicly praised the guard’s courage and selflessness, saying that he is putting the team before himself.
Fox’s role alongside Victor Wembanyama has also been central to San Antonio’s Finals push. With Wembanyama serving as the focal point of the offense, Fox has been able to operate with more freedom, but he remains crucial in pressure moments when the Spurs need shot creation, ball handling, and a steady hand against tight defenses. His ability to attack the rim and organize the offense has helped create opportunities for his teammates and kept the Spurs’ attack balanced.
In the first two games of the series, Fox has averaged 18 points and seven assists, numbers that capture only part of his influence. Beyond scoring, his constant movement, defensive energy, and ability to deliver under pressure have been important to San Antonio’s overall approach. His performance has added another layer to the Finals narrative, turning him into a player whose impact is measured not only by statistics, but by resilience, sacrifice, and leadership.
