BREAKING: San Antonio Spurs Star Stephon Castle Named Finalist For Rookie Of The Year

It’s official. Stephon Castle has been selected a finalist for the NBA Rookie of the Year award, the league said. The Spurs’ young guard will go off against 2024 draft No.1 overall pick Zaccharie Risacher of the Hawks and Memphis Grizzlies second-round pick Jaylen Wells for the distinction.

The rookie class was not exceptionally spectacular, but Castle stood out. He led all qualified rookies in points per game, made field goals and free throws, and finished fourth in assists. Castle was also a key rotation player for a Spurs squad that was in contention for a play-in position until Victor Wembanyama was diagnosed with deep vein thrombosis and ruled out for the season in February.

Following that, his role grew, as did his production, and he finished the season with an average of 14.7 points, 3.7 rebounds, and 4.1 assists. He appears to be the favorite to win the prize, but the other two candidates have compelling claims as well.

Risacher started 73 games for an Atlanta club that advanced to the playoffs and performed admirably in a limited but critical 3-and-D role for a seasoned team that outperformed expectations. Wells started 74 games for a Grizzlies club that made it to the playoffs. He guarded the opposition team’s top perimeter player most nights and hit threes at a high rate on a regular basis. Both performed smaller roles than Castle and delivered less eye-catching performances, but they are excellent selections.

Jared McCain of Philadelphia would have been a contender if not for his ailments.

There were no other Spurs finalists for any categories.
Castle might become the Spurs’ second consecutive Rookie of the Year winner, following Victor Wembanyama’s unanimous selection last season. Even if he doesn’t, he accomplished enough as a rookie to demonstrate his significant upside, so the franchise is undoubtedly pleased with their selection.