Stephon Castle of the San Antonio Spurs has put up strong offensive numbers this season, averaging 16.6 points and 7.0 assists per game.
Still, he considers his defensive impact his most important contribution.
Castle said he has made a conscious effort to take pride in that part of the room and embrace the assignments the coaching staff gives him.
“I try to hang my hat on that end,” he told Jeff McDonald of the San Antonio Express-News. “So I kind of accepted all the challenges that the coaches gave me in that area.”
Head coach Mitch Johnson echoed that sentiment, suggesting Castle has the potential to be recognized around the league for his defense if fully locked down.
“He is an All-NBA defender when he puts his energy and focus in the right areas,” Johnson said.
Elsewhere, Julian Champagnie’s twin brother, Justin Champagnie, has earned a regular role in the Washington Wizards’ rotation.
Jared Weiss from The Athletics detailed how the Champagnie twins have consistently pushed each other throughout their development, a dynamic that has continued into their professional careers.
Julian Champagnie, a 6-foot-1 forward, has been particularly productive this month, averaging 13.9 points and 7.1 rebounds per game.
Stephon Castle believes his biggest contributions will come on defense, and more so for Spurs. https://t.co/DK5Q8tJjWC
— Hoops Rumors (@HoopsRumors) January 31, 2026
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