Stephon Castle couldn’t be in a better position to begin his NBA career. Much like his college team (UConn), the San Antonio Spurs are a well-run, fundamentals-based organization. Castle comes to San Antonio bringing maturity, a leadership attitude, and a superb skill set. These traits could give Castle a significant role early in his career, but the Spurs’ history shows that’s easier said than done.
Under Gregg Popovich, there have been only a few instances where a Spurs rookie has had significant playing time in his first season. Tim Duncan, Tony Parker, and Victor Wembanyama are the only players who have had significant roles in their first seasons under Popovich, and rightfully so. Duncan entered the league in 1997 after being named national player of the year in his final college season.
Parker made a splash overseas before shining at a Nike Hoops camp against other NBA prospects, proving his worth. As for Wembanyama, he was the hottest NBA prospect since LeBron James and Popovich had no choice but to let him shine, and that’s exactly what he did.
Castle has the potential to leave as big a mark on Spurs as those players have, especially in 2024. He brings so much to the team, making him a great candidate to be the team’s X-factor and have a big impact on Spurs’ performance this year.
Castle showed remarkable leadership skills in college, leading his team (with quality pieces) to a national championship. Castle displayed great poise and an ability to keep the pace of the game under control, which was most evident in the NCAA tournament. During March Madness, Castle was the best player on the court in every round, catapulting his draft stock along the way. Ultimately, the chips would fall in favor of the Spurs, bringing Castle to the Alamo City.
After the draft, Castle made a statement during summer league, showing his potential to become a star for this team.
When the Spurs came out and signed Chris Paul for $11 million By signing his contract just a few weeks after arriving in San Antonio, it was clear that the team valued Castle’s development. With the opportunity to learn from one of the league’s best point guards, Castle will get an extra boost as he transitions to the NBA. With a solid foundation of skill and maturity already in place, he’ll be a vital part of the Spurs’ game plan heading into the season.
Paul is expected to start at point guard, pushing Castle to shooting guard (if he starts in the starting five), which could benefit him greatly as a freshman. In high school, Castle proved he could run an offense effectively and make the right plays, reassuring the Spurs coaches that he would do the same in San Antonio. Starting at shooting guard could allow Castle to improve his shot-making ability and become a more consistent shooter, so not starting at point guard right now will help Castle in the long run.
If Castle can become a consistent mid-range shooter and make plays off screens, he could become a fantastic all-around player, making him a dangerous weapon for the Spurs this season. Additionally, Castle has already shown fearlessness when attacking the basket, displaying great athleticism for a guard.
On the other hand, Castle is already an All-NBA caliber defensive leader with his great defensive instincts. He will have no problem defending the opposing team’s star player. Castle’s long arms, quick recovery, and high motor will give him an advantage in one-on-one matchups as the season progresses.
Castle will make his presence felt at both ends of the pitch, which is not the case for many players. Whether he comes on as a substitute or quickly finds a starting role, Castle has the qualities to help Spurs in all aspects of the game. With Castle, experienced leadership around him and the continued stardom of Wembanyama, Spurs will be a household name in the NBA early enough.
