Stephon Castle, Victor Wembanyama Make NBA History in Spurs' Game 3 Win
A Game 3 win for the San Antonio Spurs was spearheaded by two of its young stars, as Stephon Castle and Victor Wembanyama both had big performances in the 115-111 win.
While Jalen Brunson had a team-high 32 points for the Knicks, Wemby matched that scoring output with 32 of his own, making 11 of 18 field goals, including two 3-pointers. He dished out six assists, remained active on the boards with eight rebounds, swatted away three Knicks’ shots, and also recorded two steals.
Castle also played aggressively, with several big drives to the basket that resulted in made shots and free throws. He finished with 23 points on 8 of 14 field goals, including two 3-pointers, and clutch free throws to help seal the win.
Wemby and Castle carrying the load in a Game 3 win was massive, as no other Spurs players contributed more than 13 points in the game. The two players appeared more aggressive in getting the paint against a physical Knicks team that had mostly kept the 7-foot-4 Wemby away from there in the first two games.
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Wemby and Castle’s performances were also historic. Following the game, Underdog NBA revealed that they became the first teammates, 22 years old or younger, to have 20-plus points each in an NBA Finals game.
It’s an impressive feat early in what should be multi-time All-Star careers, and potentially legendary careers for the Spurs’ young stars. This past season, the 21-year-old Castle averaged 16.7 points per game and ranked sixth in the league with 7.4 assists per game.
Wemby, only 22, averaged 25 points and 11 rebounds per game, and is in his third season. That has many individuals wondering what the ceiling might be for a player of his talents, which likely have yet to fully emerge.
One of the big knocks against big men that go first in the NBA Draft has been that many have become busts in the league. That doesn’t appear to be the case for Wemby, especially with how quickly he reached the NBA Finals.
Some contend that Wemby will need to bulk up more and work on his health regimen so he can battle physical opponents more throughout his career. Most likely, it will arrive with experience, as the game’s best, LeBron James, might impart his wisdom on the fellow All-Star.
And one thing stood out in Game 3: the two Spurs stars were played more aggressively, resulting in made baskets and free throws. However, they shouldn’t have to shoulder the load, as teammates like Julian Champagnie and De’Aaron Fox have previously stepped up.
The Spurs will need more of the same when Game 4 arrives on Wednesday at 8:30 p.m. ET in New York City.
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This story was originally published June 9, 2026 at 11:08 AM.