Stephon Castle Tops NBA Rookie Rankings After Paris Performance

PARIS, France — Stephon Castle of the San Antonio Spurs has surged to the top of the NBA’s Kia Rookie Ladder following a standout performance in the NBA Paris Games. The 2024 draft pick edged out Washington Wizards‘ Alex Sarr, who previously held the No. 1 spot, as the league’s rookies wrapped up their third full month in the NBA.

Castle, who averaged 11.7 points, 2.5 rebounds, and 3.6 assists per game, showcased his skills in Paris, earning him a spot in the Rising Stars event at the upcoming NBA All-Star Weekend. His rise comes as eight of the top 10 rookies were selected to compete in the event, highlighting the depth of this year’s rookie class.

“He’s been a consistent presence for us,” said a Spurs spokesperson. “His ability to step up in big moments, like in Paris, has been crucial.”

Meanwhile, Jaylen Wells of the Memphis Grizzlies, a second-round pick, has emerged as a defensive force. Wells, who averages 11.7 points and 3.2 rebounds, has been tasked with guarding some of the league’s top scorers. “He does not get deterred,” said Grizzlies coach Taylor Jenkins. “His defensive intensity has been a game-changer for us.”

Alex Sarr, who previously led the rankings, slipped to No. 3 after spraining his left ankle in a game against the Dallas Mavericks. The Wizards’ rookie, who was named the Eastern Conference Rookie of the Month in December, has struggled with consistency in recent weeks.

Other notable rookies include Zach Edey of the Grizzlies, who has shown promise as a defensive anchor, and Yves Missi of the New Orleans Pelicans, whose defensive rating remains strong despite a dip in offensive production.

The rookie class of 2024 has been one of the most competitive in recent years, with five lottery picks and five later selections making significant impacts on their respective teams. As the season progresses, the race for Rookie of the Year remains wide open, with Castle, Wells, and Sarr leading the pack.