Sports
Spurs’ Victor Wembanyama Shines as Team Starts 8-2, Castle Shines Too
San Antonio, Texas – The San Antonio Spurs have raced to an impressive 8-2 start this season, with much of the credit going to superstar Victor Wembanyama and second-year player Stephon Castle. Castle, the reigning Rookie of the Year, is excelling with an average of 18.3 points, 5.7 rebounds, 7.8 assists, and 2 steals per game, making a significant impact in critical moments.
Castle’s recent performances highlight his skills, even when the team is missing key players like De'Aaron Fox, Jeremy Sochan, and Luke Kornet. Coach Mitch Johnson praised Castle’s versatility, stating, “It’s going to be a great opportunity for his versatility… He can impact winning whether he is on the ball, off the ball, defensively.” Johnson added that Castle can effectively guard various profiles of premier players, making him vital to the team.
In a recent matchup against the Phoenix Suns, Castle displayed his defensive prowess by guarding star player Devin Booker. His physical defense was instrumental in limiting Booker’s scoring. Additionally, he has faced challenges from top players like Cooper Flagg and Luka Doncic but held his own in those matchups.
Even when his shooting is off, Castle continues to influence the game positively. In back-to-back games against the Houston Rockets and New Orleans Pelicans, he recorded a total of 27 assists, showcasing his playmaking abilities despite struggling at times with his shot.
Castle’s performance surged during a game against the Bulls, where he significantly contributed to a comeback by shutting down Chicago in the fourth quarter. He finished with 11 assists and just one turnover, highlighting his growth in shot creation while balancing ball-sharing duties with Fox.
He has consistently scored at least 13 points in the team’s first ten games, a streak Wembanyama has not matched. Castle’s ability to draw fouls and score from the line provides a reliable offensive base. His capability to hit three-pointers and drive to the rim makes him a versatile offensive threat.
Looking ahead, Castle’s improved shooting and decision-making could transform him into a key playmaker alongside Fox and Dylan Harper. The Spurs have not seen a player like Castle since the days of Manu Ginobili, making his contributions even more vital to the team’s success. With his versatility, Castle is helping the Spurs maintain their strong start this season.
