San Antonio Spurs guard Stephon Castle and Atlanta Hawks forward Jalen Johnson were named the Western and Eastern Conference Players of the Week, respectively, the NBA revealed for Week 16 of the 2025/26 season. This distinction recognizes their exceptional contributions over games played between February 2 and 8.
Stephon Castle’s Historic Performance Leads Spurs to Perfection
Stephon Castle, who previously earned Rookie of the Year honors, spearheaded the Spurs’ undefeated week by posting averages of 24.0 points, 7.3 rebounds, 7.3 assists, along with 3.0 steals and one block per game in just over 26 minutes of play. Castle’s shooting efficiencies were impressive, hitting 63% from the field, 36.4% from beyond the arc, and 76.9% from the free-throw line.
The highlight of Castle’s week came on Saturday against the Dallas Mavericks, when he achieved a career-best 40 points, 12 rebounds, and 12 assists on an efficient 15-of-19 shooting night. This performance marked him as the youngest player in NBA history to record a 40-12-12 stat line.
I don’t know, something about this day,
Castle shared.
Having a game like this, it’s definitely a dream come true. It felt good just to be out there feeling comfortable with every shot that I took and [got to] see them go in.
?Stephon Castle, Spurs guard
Jalen Johnson’s Continued Rise Highlights Hawks’ Week
Jalen Johnson maintained his impressive breakout season with outstanding all-around contributions, averaging 27.3 points, 12.0 rebounds, and 11.3 assists across three games, helping Atlanta secure a 2-1 record. During the week, Johnson posted two triple-doubles, bringing his season total to 10—the highest in the Eastern Conference.
This award marks Johnson’s second Player of the Week recognition, underscoring his emerging role as a dominant force for the Hawks.
Other Notable Contenders for Player of the Week
The NBA also acknowledged several other high-performing players nominated for this week’s honors, including Victor Wembanyama, Kawhi Leonard, Scottie Barnes, Jalen Brunson, Karl-Anthony Towns, and Nikola Jokic. These nominees reflect the depth of talent across both conferences during Week 16.
Impact of Recognitions on Players and Teams
The weekly award highlights the growing influence of young talents like Stephon Castle and Jalen Johnson on their respective franchises. Castle’s historic game and Johnson’s consistent triple-double performances not only boost their careers but also signal positive momentum for the Spurs and Hawks moving forward this season. Their accomplishments set a high standard as the NBA season progresses.
Heading to the final frame pic.twitter.com/mIyZAO0beZ
— Atlanta Hawks (@ATLHawks) December 20, 2024
Stephon Castle, Jalen Johnson Named Players Of The Week https://t.co/vaduG5dg0s pic.twitter.com/eLCGbZpIQp
— Hoops Rumors (@HoopsRumors) February 9, 2026
