Spurs’ Backcourt Concerns: Can De’Aaron Fox and Stephon Castle Deliver?

By Edcel Panganiban August 19, 2025 08:17

The San Antonio Spurs enter the 2025-26 NBA season with optimism but underlying concerns about their backcourt. After securing De’Aaron Fox with a recent four-year, $229 million contract extension, the franchise places high expectations on the dynamic point guard to lead the next era alongside reigning NBA Rookie of the Year Stephon Castle. Yet, questions remain whether this duo can develop into a synergistic force capable of propelling the Spurs back into playoff contention after several years of rebuilding.

De’Aaron Fox, 27, was acquired by the Spurs at the 2024 trade deadline from the Sacramento Kings and immediately became the team’s focal point. Fox, averaging 19.7 points, 6.8 assists, and 4.3 rebounds over 17 games with the Spurs that season, possesses elite speed and playmaking ability. His contract extension through the 2029-30 season underscores the Spurs' commitment to him as the franchise’s centerpiece guard.

Fox’s journey has been marked by athleticism and steady improvement, but durability remains a concern. He missed significant time last season due to surgery to repair an extensor tendon injury on his left pinky finger, which affected his late-season availability. Despite that, Fox maintains a career average of 21.5 points and 6.1 assists, and his ability to penetrate defenses with lightning-quick drives creates scoring opportunities for himself and teammates. Fox’s presence alongside star big man Victor Wembanyama presents an intriguing inside-out offensive threat, crucial for a Spurs team rebuilding its identity.

Opposite Fox, Stephon Castle emerged as a bright spot in 2024-25, capturing Rookie of the Year honors. Known for his versatile scoring, defensive tenacity, and maturity beyond his years, Castle averaged 16.2 points, 4.8 rebounds, and 5.1 assists as a rookie. His chemistry with Fox will be pivotal; both guards thrive in up-tempo, pick-and-roll scenarios but also must learn to balance scoring leadership and playmaking responsibilities. The Spurs hope Castle’s development curve continues upward, establishing him as a reliable secondary scorer and disruptive defender.

However, concerns linger over backcourt spacing and shooting efficiency. While Fox and Castle deliver explosiveness and athleticism, their combined three-point shooting percentages hover around 33-35%, a figure below league average that could hamper floor spacing for Wembanyama and other shooters. The Spurs’ front office is expected to supplement them with sharpshooters via the upcoming NBA draft or free agency. Moreover, Sturdy defense will be paramount; both Fox and Castle must elevate their perimeter defense to improve the Spurs’ middling defensive ratings from last season.

Coach Gregg Popovich, lauded for his player development prowess, will be instrumental in harnessing the duo’s potential and managing egos and roles. Popovich praised the players: “De’Aaron and Stephon have unique gifts. Our task is to maximize their strengths and create an environment where they push each other to improve every day. The competition in the backcourt will drive us forward.”

Recent draft pick Dylan Harper, a promising young point guard taken second overall in 2025, adds depth and future potential. Harper’s presence ensures healthy competition and insurance for injuries but also places subtle pressure on Fox and Castle to perform consistently.

The Spurs’ backcourt, anchored by De’Aaron Fox’s superstar potential and Stephon Castle’s rookie promise, represents the linchpin of San Antonio’s rebuilding ambitions. While both guards have shown flashes of brilliance, sustained improvement and health will determine if they can transform the Spurs into playoff contenders. With strategic roster moves and experienced coaching, the Spurs are betting that their dynamic backcourt duo will eventually spark a return to prominence in the NBA landscape.