Spurs Notes: Castle, Minix, Wembanyama

No. 4 overall pick Stephon Castle said both before and after the draft that he considered himself a point guard, but his role entering his rookie season was uncertain, writes Tom Orsborn of The San Antonio Express-News (subscription required). The Spurs signed Chris Paul in free agency and also have Tre Joneswho started most of the last two seasons at the top. Third year guards Malaki Branham And Blake Wesley have also initiated the crime at times.

“I don't know for sure, but I don't really careCastle said about the way head coaches Gregg Popovich plans to use it.

No matter what positions Castle is tasked with, he says he's ready to contribute.

“I feel like it's all about using my versatility on the pitchsaid Castle. “I just go out there and don't really set any expectations. I'm just trying to play for free. For me, the biggest thing is being on the field so I can find a way to help us win. This is a good role for me.”

Here's more about the Spurs:

• Popovich claimed last week he didn't know who Riley Minix was when training camp opened, but the undrafted rookie forward made a strong impression on the legendary coach, Orsborn adds. The Spurs recently converted Minix's Exhibit 10 contract to a two-way contract. He says he didn't do anything out of the ordinary to get Popovich's attention. “Just staying confident, playing my game, doing whatever the team needs, being able to shoot the ball, making shots when I was open, just all the little things I've done my whole lifesaid Minix.
• Rookie of the Year. Second place for Defensive Player of the Year. All-Defensive First Team. Silver medal. Big man Victor Wembanyama He accomplished all of this in his first year after being selected No. 1 overall in 2023. Although he doesn't take these accolades for granted, Wembanyama says he still wants to accomplish much more, according to Tim Reynolds of The Associated Press. “The same goes for all my trophies, whether team trophies or even individual trophiesWembanyama said. “I love her. I really appreciate them. But I want all my trophies I get now to be building blocks to build something great in the future. You know, a stone alone isn't much. If you collect them you can get a palace.”
• In case you missed it, guards Malachi Flynn, Brandon Boston And Jamaree Bouyea — all of whom were on Exhibit 10 training camp contracts — were released Saturday to finalize San Antonio's regular-season roster. Boston was then claimed by the Pelicans on Monday.