Keldon Johnson on San Antonio Spurs' Future: 'We're Going to Start Winning'

The San Antonio Spurs dropped their ninth game in a row last night, to the Los Angeles Clippers. After the game, Keldon Johnson issued a positive proclamation.

The San Antonio Spurs lost to the Los Angeles Clippers last night, 124-99. The first quarter was close, but after that the wheels fell off the bus and the Clippers ran the Spurs out of the Frost Bank Center. 

Keldon Johnson led the way with a 22-point double-double, and Cedi Osman was one of only a few bright spots.

After the game, an unusually somber Johnson addressed the media and suggested that losing was beginning to get old, but that the Spurs are on the rise. 

“I like to joke around, I’m goofy, it’s just me. Keep it light in here, not so serious all the time. We’re getting better,” Johnson said. “We’re losing, everybody knows that, but I’ll keep being myself, keep being energetic, because the tide will turn, and you know, I’m still going to be myself.”

Cedi Osman added 17 points off the bench in a losing effort.  / © Daniel Dunn-USA TODAY Sports

Johnson then issued what seems to be a warning for the league. 

“When we start winning, y’all will say ‘KJ, he was the same person win or losing,’ and that’s what it’s going to be," Johnson said. "But, we’re going to start winning, so it’s only a matter of time. We’re learning, we’re getting better.”

The usually boisterous Johnson kept a level tone of voice throughout but leaned forward when he proclaimed that the Spurs will start winning.

Looking at the lineup and potential in San Antonio, it’s hard to disagree with him. Jeremy Sochan is objectively a good player, just playing an unfamiliar position. Devin Vassell has been hurt, Johnson is an energy guy, and it looks like Victor Wembayama’s floor is a perennial DPOY candidate. His ceiling? GOAT? Who can say?

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The Spurs are a team on the rise. Fans know it, the roster knows it, it’s only a matter of time. Johnson knows people need to be patient, even if that’s difficult, but he’ll be bringing his own brand of energy, win or lose.