Rockets' Ime Udoka makes Fred VanVleet free agency announcement

Fred VanVleet was the driving force behind the Houston Rockets rattling off back-to-back wins to force a Game 7 with the Warriors.

But after losing in the win-or-go-home game, VanVleet's contract with the Rockets is up.

He's set to be a free agent.

Rockets coach Ime Udoka doesn't want that, though. He shared his thoughts Sunday night in his postgame press conference.

“I think both sides want to be here and want him here," Udoka said. 

On an otherwise younger team, VanVleet has grown into a great leader.

"He’s a huge part of our growth," Udoka said. "Love everything he’s done. Perfect combo of on and off ball for our guards and young guys to grow. I’d love to have him back, and I think the feeling’s mutual.”

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FVV dropped 29 points in Game 6, his second legendary Game 6 performance in Golden State after he poured in 22 off the bench in Game 6 of the NBA Finals back when for the Raptors.

VanVleet would likely have suitors if he tested free agency. But until the first-round loss sealed the season's fate, Houston seemed to have the inside track to land VanVleet.

It's at least some good news on a night that the season otherwise came to an end in Minnesota.

Now, the basketball world will wait to see what VanVleet does next.

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