Spurs Rookie Stephon Castle Invited to NBA Slam Dunk Contest

SAN ANTONIO, Texas — San Antonio Spurs rookie Stephon Castle has received an invitation to participate in the 2025 NBA Slam Dunk Contest during All-Star Weekend in San Francisco, sources confirmed to ESPN on Monday.

The 19-year-old guard, selected fourth overall in the 2024 NBA Draft, has been turning heads with his athleticism and scoring ability. Castle has scored 20 or more points in three consecutive games, including 26 points against the Memphis Grizzlies on Sunday night.

“Stephon has been phenomenal,” said Spurs head coach Gregg Popovich. “His ability to attack the rim and finish in traffic is special for a rookie. This invitation is well-deserved.”

Castle will join a field of seven other rookies, including Memphis Grizzlies center Zach Edey and Orlando Magic forward Tristan da Silva. The event will take place on February 15 at Chase Center in San Francisco.

In his first 30 games, Castle is averaging 10.33 points and 3.2 rebounds per game. He ranks fourth among rookies in player efficiency rating (PER) and has shown significant improvement in his ability to score in the paint, with 10 or more paint points in three straight games.

“I’m just trying to make an impact every night,” Castle said after Sunday’s game. “The dunk contest is a great opportunity to showcase my athleticism and have some fun.”

Castle’s invitation comes as the Spurs continue to rebuild around their young core. The team currently sits at 12-18, 10th in the Western Conference.