Stephon Castle is actively taking on some of the NBA’s toughest defensive assignments this season, a development that is shaping his reputation as a perimeter defender. The 21-year-old guard spoke with Malika Andrews on NBA Today about regularly guarding the league’s highest-scoring players.
Asked about the opponents he faces most often on defense, Castle identified two standout offensive stars.
Two players I have guarded the most this year. There’s some good ones. I would assume it has to be somebody on OKC. We play them a lot. Shai Gilgeous-Alexander is one and then Luka Doncic is two,
Castle said.
Andrews pointed out that Gilgeous-Alexander and Doncic currently sit first and second in NBA scoring, highlighting the significance of Castle’s defensive duties.
Commitment to Defensive Excellence
Castle warmly accepted the challenge of defending such top-tier scorers and expressed pride in the role he has taken on.
I’ll take a lot of pride in that. You know, ask for those matchups. And you know, I mean, I wouldn’t want it any other way. You know, it’s like I could be one of the best, you know, perimeter defenders in the league. So just day in and day out is trying to prove that,
he stated.
Growing Role on Both Ends With San Antonio Spurs
Alongside his defensive responsibilities, Castle is also becoming a key offensive figure for the San Antonio Spurs. Through 44 games, he is averaging 16.5 points, 7.0 assists, and 5.0 rebounds per contest while shooting 46.4 percent from the field.
His increase in assists reflects his evolving role as a primary ball-handler, sharing playmaking duties with teammates De’Aaron Fox and Victor Wembanyama. Currently, the Spurs stand second in the Western Conference with a 38-16 record, supported by a balanced offense that scores 118.1 points per game.
Value of Castle’s Defense in Spurs’ Team Strategy
With San Antonio’s roster focused around Wembanyama’s rim protection, Castle’s ability to defend on the perimeter adds critical support. By limiting dribble penetration, he eases the defensive rotations required from his teammates, helping maintain the team’s structured defensive setup.
Castle’s average of 1.3 steals per game and his effectiveness navigating screens make him a preferred defender against high-level guards. His defensive toughness complements his offensive growth and reflects the steady progress he made as a rookie last season when he posted 14.7 points per game and earned All-Rookie First Team honors while starting 47 games.
Looking Ahead for Castle’s Defensive Aspirations
Stephon Castle’s determination to guard the NBA’s best scorers and his commitment to becoming one of the league’s top perimeter defenders position him as a vital asset to the Spurs. His defensive development not only strengthens San Antonio’s backcourt but also enhances their overall championship potential.
As the season progresses, Castle’s efforts on both ends of the floor will continue to influence the Spurs’ performance and could establish him prominently among the NBA’s elite defenders.
3 Spurs in double digits! 👏
Steph: 18 PTS, 4 REB
Harrison: 11 PTS, 2 AST
Jeremy: 10 PTS, 4 AST pic.twitter.com/8MfkiQIUWT— San Antonio Spurs (@spurs) March 3, 2025
Stephon Castle on guarding the likes of SGA and Luka:
"I ask for those matchups. I feel like I can be one of the best perimeter defenders in the league" pic.twitter.com/c6pVNj2Khg
— Oh No He Didn't (@ohnohedidnt24) February 13, 2026
