Stephon Castle claimed the 2025 NBA Rookie of the Year award in a result few expected early in the season. He secured 92 of 100 first-place votes, an overwhelming majority. The race seemed wide open for months, as six different players topped the Rookie of the Year ladder at various points. But Castle separated himself when it mattered most.
Stephon Castle Wins Rookie Of The Year In Surprising Twist
Castle entered the league as the No. 4 pick, not the favorite for the award. Most analysts believed the draft class lacked a clear star. Castle, however, quickly proved doubters wrong. His development in San Antonio started fast. He learned a variation of the Eurostep in his first workout with the Spurs. He then used it to devastating effect against opposing defenses.
Historic Rookie Numbers
Castle played in 80 games, starting 47. He led all rookies in total points (1,190), made field goals (423), and steals (74). He also made over 100 more free throws than any other rookie. Castle finished with averages of 14.7 points, 4.1 assists, and 3.7 rebounds per game. His points tally is the least by a rookie of the year since Malcolm Brogdon averaged 10.2 in 2016-17.
These numbers may not pop off the page, but Castle’s impact ran deeper than stats. His ability to control pace and create for teammates helped the Spurs stabilize. He consistently contributed on both ends of the floor. In fact, Castle became the first Spurs rookie since Tim Duncan to finish top two on the team in both points and assists.
His scoring wasn’t the highest for a Rookie of the Year, but his consistency stood out. He reached double figures in 60 games, more than any other rookie. He posted 26 games with at least 20 points and added two 30-point performances. Five double-doubles and 18 multi-steal games rounded out an impressive résumé.
The Spurs’ Legacy of Rookies
Castle joins elite company as the fourth Spur to win Rookie of the Year. He now shares the honor with Victor Wembanyama, Duncan, and David Robinson. San Antonio also became the fifth team in NBA history to produce back-to-back Rookie of the Year winners. The last team to do so was Minnesota with Andrew Wiggins and Karl-Anthony Towns.
This win continues the Spurs’ impressive draft success. The franchise will have two lottery picks in the 2025 draft, including one from the Dejounte Murray trade. If they strike gold again, a three-peat is entirely possible.
Rising Star with Championship Pedigree
Castle brought more than athleticism to the table. He arrived in the NBA as a national champion from UConn. That background showed in his poise and defense. He improved dramatically after the All-Star break, averaging 17.8 points, 5.1 rebounds, and 5.0 assists. His growth earned him Western Conference Rookie of the Month in January and March.
Veterans like Chris Paul took notice. Paul advised Castle to attend playoff games to prepare for future postseason pressure. Castle took the advice to heart. He now plans to spend his first real offseason working on shooting, ball-handling, and overall feel for the game.
Stephon Castle’s Bright Future in San Antonio After Rookie of the Year Win
Castle’s selection at No. 4 makes his rise even more remarkable. Unlike Duncan, Wembanyama, and Robinson, he wasn’t the top pick. Still, he outperformed players selected before him. His main challenger, Zaccharie Risacher, finished a distant second with five first-place votes. Memphis’ Jaylen Wells got the remaining three.
The Spurs believe Castle is a core piece for the future. He’ll join Wembanyama and newly acquired De’Aaron Fox in San Antonio’s rebuild. Acting coach Mitch Johnson sees big things ahead. “He’ll be a dynamic force,” Johnson said.
Stephon Castle’s surprising Rookie of the Year win signals a new era. His development embodies the Spurs’ culture and commitment to growth. With young talent and multiple picks ahead, the Wembanyama era looks ready to take its next big step.
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