The San Antonio Spurs have a new rising star. Stephon Castle has been officially crowned the 2025 NBA Rookie of the Year, taking home the prestigious Wilt Chamberlain Trophy after a standout debut season.
Castle joins an elite group of Spurs legends who previously won the award—David Robinson (1990), Tim Duncan (1998), and Victor Wembanyama (2024). With Castle and Wembanyama winning in back-to-back years, the Spurs become the first team in nearly a decade to produce consecutive Rookie of the Year winners. The last to do it? The Minnesota Timberwolves with Andrew Wiggins and Karl-Anthony Towns in 2015 and 2016.
Castle’s Numbers Speak for Themselves
Castle wasted no time making his presence felt in the NBA. In 81 games this season, he averaged 14.7 points, 4.1 assists, 3.7 rebounds, and nearly a steal per game—all while shooting over 50% from the field. He led all rookies in total points (1,190), free throws made (249), and steals (74), and finished among the top in nearly every major statistical category.
His performance only got stronger as the season progressed. After the All-Star break, Castle elevated his game, averaging 17.8 points, 5.1 rebounds, and 5.0 assists across 30 games.
Big Moments, Big Stage
Castle didn’t just shine in the regular season. He took home MVP honors at the Castrol Rising Stars event during NBA All-Star Weekend in San Francisco, further proving he’s built for the spotlight. He was also named Western Conference Rookie of the Month twice—in January and March.
He dominated the Rookie of the Year voting, earning 92 out of 100 first-place votes from a global panel of sportswriters and broadcasters. Atlanta Hawks forward Zaccharie Risacher finished second, with Memphis’ Jaylen Wells coming in third.
Reacting to the honor live on Inside the NBA, Castle called the moment “full circle,” reflecting on the hard work and dedication that led him to this point.
Stephon Castle’s Rookie Season at a Glance:
- Games Played: 81
- Minutes per Game: 26.7
- Points per Game: 14.7
- Assists: 4.1
- Rebounds: 3.7
- Steals: 0.91
- Shooting %: 50.45%
With Castle and Wembanyama forming one of the NBA’s most exciting young duos, the future in San Antonio looks brighter than ever.
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