Stephon Castle says he appreciates the recognition that came with winning last season’s Rookie of the Year award – but he’s made it clear that the honor hasn’t changed his mindset or motivation.
Speaking with Marc J. Spears of Andscape, the Spurs guard explained that while earning 92 of 100 first-place votes was meaningful, his focus is now firmly on helping San Antonio return to the playoffs for the first time since 2019.
“I feel like once you get it, your name is installed in history,” Castle said of receiving the award.
“And then you have to go make your career after that. I’m not going out there saying, ‘I’m the Rookie of the Year and give me a vet (officiating) call, respect me.’ You got to go out there and play. I’m not really thinking about that (award) when I’m playing in the game. I’m just trying to improve every year.”
Castle’s play so far this season suggests that he’s doing exactly that. Through eight games, the second-year guard is averaging 18.8 points, 6.0 rebounds, and 6.6 assists while serving as the team’s starting point guard during De’Aaron Fox’s absence.
He’s also emerged as the Spurs’ top perimeter defender, often taking on the responsibility of guarding the opposing team’s best scorer.
Head coach Mitch Johnson praised Castle’s all-around impact and versatility.
“He can impact winning whether he is on the ball, off the ball, defensively,” Johnson said. “He is going to guard a ton of different profiles in terms of premier players on teams. He has an opportunity to affect the game as much as anybody.”
Spurs Notes: Castle, McLaughlin, Wembanyama, Champagnie, Harper https://t.co/kbZAv4NoqL pic.twitter.com/xM0VYXoQA5
— Hoops Rumors (@HoopsRumors) November 9, 2025
