Where Stephon Castle Can Help the San Antonio Spurs Next Season

Selected with the fourth overall pick in the 2024 draft, Castle could be in for an intriguing year in San Antonio.

Mathey Gibson | Sep 25, 2024

Apr 8, 2024; Glendale, AZ, USA; Connecticut Huskies guard Stephon Castle (5) reacts after shooting the ball for a three point basket against the Purdue Boilermakers during the second half of the national championship game of the Final Four of the 2024 NCAA Tournament at State Farm Stadium. / Bob Donnan-Imagn Images

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San Antonio Spurs

The San Antonio Spurs made a bold move by selecting Stephon Castle with the fourth overall pick in the 2024 NBA Draft. Castle, a versatile guard out of UConn, brings a unique blend of size, strength, and defense that could make him a valuable asset for the Spurs next season.

What Does Castle Bring to the Spurs Defensively?

Jul 13, 2024; Las Vegas, NV, USA; Portland Trail Blazers guard Kennedy Chandler (54) collides with San Antonio Spurs guard Stephon Castle (5) during the fourth quarter at Thomas & Mack Center. / Stephen R. Sylvanie-Imagn Images

At 6-foot-6 and 215 pounds, Castle's physical profile closely resembles that of fellow Spurs forward Keldon Johnson, giving San Antonio the option to use him in multiple positions. While Castle’s primary role may be as a jumbo point guard, his ability to defend multiple opens up a range of possibilities for coach Gregg Popovich. His size and strength allow him to match up with bigger wings while still handling ball-handling duties, offering the Spurs a multi-dimensional player.

Castle’s greatest strength lies in his ability to play at his own pace. He’s not the fastest or most explosive player, but his powerful frame allows him to absorb contact and finish at the rim, making up for any lack of quickness with sheer physicality.

He’s excellent at getting to his spots on the floor, using his body to shield defenders and create space. Around the basket, his strength allows him to initiate contact and play through it, a valuable skill for a team looking to add more physicality to its backcourt.

What Makes Him a Special Talent?

Jul 13, 2024; Las Vegas, NV, USA; San Antonio Spurs guard Sidy Cissoko (25) celebrates with San Antonio Spurs guard Stephon Castle (5) after scoring against the Portland Trail Blazers during the second quarter at Thomas & Mack Center. / Stephen R. Sylvanie-Imagn Images

Defensively, Castle has the tools to be a game-changer. With his frame and long wingspan, he is capable of guarding top-tier wing scorers and providing consistent on-ball pressure.

Teams are always searching for players who can disrupt opposing offenses, and Castle’s size, strength, and length make him the ideal candidate to lock down perimeter threats. His ability to deny dribble penetration and force opponents into tough shots will be tempting for the Spurs’ coaching staff.

One of the most disruptive point-of-attack defenders in his draft class, Castle’s defensive instincts are already highly regarded. He applies suffocating pressure on ball handlers, using his quick lateral movements and fluid hips to stay in front of his man and navigate through screens.

His long arms and active hands allow him to contest shots and create turnovers, while his physicality prevents opponents from easily attacking the paint.

What Does it Mean for 2024-25?

Connecticut Huskies guard Stephon Castle (5) cuts the basketball net after winning the Men's NCAA national championship game against the Purdue Boilermakers at State Farm Stadium in Glendale on April 8, 2024. / © Joe Rondone/The Republic / USA TODAY NETWORK

In addition to his one-on-one defense, Castle is an excellent team defender. He communicates well on the court, makes timely rotations, and understands his responsibilities as the low man in help defense. At UConn, he showcased his ability to provide secondary rim protection, double in the post, and stunt on drives, all while maintaining defensive integrity.

Popovich and the Spurs clearly saw Castle as a perfect cultural fit. His unselfish play, relentless defense, and ability to contribute on both ends of the floor make him an ideal addition to the Spurs’ system.

While he’ll likely begin his career coming off the bench, Castle has the potential to work his way into a starting role sooner rather than later. His defensive capabilities, combined with his offensive versatility, make him a player who could thrive in San Antonio’s long-term plans.

By 2025, Castle could be one of the Spurs' most valuable assets, helping the team regain its defensive identity while adding a unique offensive skillset to the lineup. His growth will be something to watch closely as San Antonio continues to build around its young core.