Mon Feb 17 02:40:00 UTC 2025: ## Spurs Rookie Stephon Castle Shines at Rising Stars, Eyes Dunk Contest Victory

**SAN FRANCISCO** – San Antonio Spurs rookie Stephon Castle is making a name for himself at NBA All-Star Weekend. Castle led Team C to victory in the Rising Stars Challenge, earning the MVP trophy and a $35,000 prize. His performance included the game-winning assist in the final against Team G League, and a decisive jump shot in the earlier round. Castle’s impressive play secured his team a spot in Sunday’s All-Star Game against a team of veteran stars coached by Shaquille O’Neal, including LeBron James, Stephen Curry, and Kevin Durant.

But Castle isn’t done yet. He’s also competing in Saturday’s dunk contest, hinting at spectacular performances: “The MVP trophy isn’t the only trophy I’m trying to take home,” he stated. This would make him only the second player, after Blake Griffin in 2011, to compete in events on all three nights of All-Star Weekend.

Team C’s victory was hard-fought. Team G League pulled off an upset in the earlier rounds, defeating Team M thanks to a last-second three-pointer by Bryce McGowen, capitalizing on a missed foul shot opportunity by Ausar Thompson. Team C’s roster will be completed by Amen Thompson, selected by Candace Parker, who will take over coaching duties from Chris Mullin for Sunday’s All-Star Game.

The Rising Stars game, featuring rookies and G League players, showcased a renewed focus on competitiveness, a departure from the less-intense games of recent years. Castle and his teammates express confidence heading into their matchup against the veteran squad, viewing it as an opportunity to play freely without pressure. Other rookies like Dalton Knecht (Lakers) and Ryan Dunn (Suns) are also excited for the chance to play against NBA legends, anticipating a fun and potentially competitive game. Knecht playfully hinted at the possibility of some trash talk with LeBron James, but added he intends to “finish” any exchanges that occur. The All-Star Game will utilize a four-team mini-tournament format, with a target score of 40 points for each game.

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