Stephon Castle Relished Shutting Down James Harden

Originally posted on Athlon Sports | By Jonah Kubicek | Last updated Jan 1, 2025 2:23 PM ET

Even 35 years old and five seasons removed from his last All-Star game appearance, James Harden is still one of the more lethal offensive players in the NBA. The 2018 NBA MVP has led the league in scoring three times and presents a challenge for defenders, especially physical ones who create contact.

On Tuesday, the San Antonio Spurs held him to only 17 points and inefficient shooting. Jeremy Sochan guarded him for much of the first half, but after going down with a back injury, rookie Stephon Castle stepped up.

Sochan was able to steal the ball away from Harden, but in the second half, guarded by Castle, "The Beard" scored only four points on 1-3 shooting before head coach Tyronn Lue waived the white flag and brought in the bench players.

Castle prides himself on making a defensive effort and is already one of the better perimeter defenders in the league.

"My mindset was really just on focusing on our defensive game plan on Harden," said Castle. "Knowing I had to take that assignment from Jeremy when he came out."

On offense, Castle was no slouch either, posting 15 points and four assists. He didn't make a 3-pointer, but his off-ball movement and ability to get open gave the Spurs plenty of easy baskets. Once his shot starts falling from deep, he will be a very special young player.

He will have a chance to go up against another excellent guard on Friday when the Spurs take on Jamal Murray and the Denver Nuggets.

This article first appeared on Athlon Sports and was syndicated with permission.

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