The San Antonio Spurs are in no rush regarding their prized rookie. The 2024 NBA Draft Class so far has been disappointing. Labeled as one of the worst classes in recent memory, that initial mindset appears to be accurate, as only four players are averaging double-digit points and only two players have a VORP over zero.
With the fourth overall pick, the San Antonio Spurs selected Stephon Castle. Critics hailed him as an elite defender, yet he presented a significant challenge on the offensive end. That seems to be accurate, as he is averaging 5.9 points, 2.5 rebounds, 2.5 assists, and 0.9 steals on limited action. His shooting numbers, particularly his 14.3 percent accuracy from 3-point range, are disappointing.
On Wednesday, Castle got his first career start amid a Spurs’ roster filled with injuries. The Spurs fell to the Houston Rockets 100-127, and Castle made only two shots in 25 minutes, but he racked up three steals, which is a very positive sign. The Spurs value any experience and playing time Castle can get; they understand there will be some growing pains and bone-headed moments, but they like what they see so far.
“He’s doing great,” said Mitch Johnson on Wednesday. “He’s still a rookie, obviously, so the game is probably going a little fast, and he has to get some experience and shore things up, but he’s doing a good job.” He competes fiercely, making it difficult to have a problem with a kid like him.
Like Victor Wembanyama and Jeremy Sochan, the Spurs value their young players getting experience as they find their comfort level. The Spurs will take on the Portland Trail Blazers tonight, and with Sochan, Devin Vassell, and Tre Jones all out, Castle is likely to start again.
Castle Notches Career High Steals At Rockets
Receive a daily update on the San Antonio Spurs, encompassing news, drafts, and additional details. Happy Thursday, Por Vida fans! Welcome to your morning Spurs starter. The San Antonio Spurs dropped their second straight game for the second time of the season Wednesday night against the Houston Rockets, marking the third game between the two teams in two weeks.
Lots of numbers. There were plenty on Houston’s side of things as well, as seven Rockets finished in double figures in what ended up being a blowout. One of the bright spots of the evening, however, came from the Spurs’ defensive anchors.
Victor Wembanyama recorded three blocks, Sandro Mamukelashvili contributed two of his own, and Stephon Castle, who made his first start in Jeremy Sochan’s absence, grabbed a career-high three steals.
“He’s a mature young man,” Spurs interim coach Mitch Johnson said of Castle. “He’s serious in his approach and his term.” It’s challenging for young players in this league, but he maintains his composure.
Though he struggled offensively, that was evident Wednesday evening. He likely has a few more games to continue proving himself in an expanded role.
Castle’s First NBA Start Was Memorable In Its Own Way
Stephon Castle did not star in his first NBA start but was a capable replacement. The butterflies were non-existent for Spurs rookie Stephon Castle as he prepared for his first NBA start on Wednesday.
“I’m pretty calm,” Castle said. “I know our assignments. I trust our strategies; I trust our guys on the court. There’s not much to get overly excited about. In order to replace the injured Jeremy Sochan, Houston promoted Castle, the No. 4 pick in last June’s draft, to a starting role.
The 20-year-old Castle will always cherish this night, despite his somewhat forgettable stat line. With his parents in the stands at the Toyota Center, the former Connecticut standout did his best to blend in with the Spurs’ starting group.
Castle logged a modest five points and produced zero assists in the Spurs’ 127-100 loss. On the positive side, he committed no turnovers on a night when the rest of the team coughed up 20 and seized three steals.
“He’s still a rookie, obviously, so the game is probably going a little fast,” Spurs acting coach Mitch Johnson said. “He has to get some experience and shore up some things, but he’s doing a good job.”
Despite Sochan’s anticipated extended absence due to a broken thumb, Castle’s stint as a starter is likely to be brief. Devin Vassell, the shooting guard who has not played since undergoing foot surgery in June, is poised to make his season debut soon. That could come as soon as Saturday’s game against Utah.
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