Stephon Castle thrives in San Antonio as Reed Sheppard struggles in Houston
Yahoo Sports • 1 min read • Latest: Jun 15, 2026, 12:00 AM
Last updated Jun 15, 2026
As the 2025-2026 NBA season concluded, focus turns to the upcoming draft. Spurs guard Stephon Castle, this season's Rookie of the Year, excelled with increased playing time, averaging 30.0 minutes per game. In contrast, Rockets guard Reed Sheppard faced significant challenges in Houston, averaging only 12.6 minutes. Sheppard's opportunities were limited by the presence of veteran guards and consistent early substitutions, impacting his development. The differing experiences of both players highlight how team roles can shape a young player's career trajectory.
- •Castle averaged 30.0 minutes per game in 2025-2026.
- •Sheppard averaged only 12.6 minutes per game as a rookie.
- •Sheppard struggled behind veteran guards like Fred VanVleet.
- •Castle's development benefited from extended playing time.
- •Team roles significantly affect player progression.
- 12:00 AMYahoo Sports — How A Young Player’s Role on a Team Impacts Their Future
"Stephon Castle thrived in San Antonio while Reed Sheppard struggled for minutes in Houston, proving that coaching philosophy and roster depth can dictate a prospect's career trajectory.
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