Stephon Castle hit a winner, won an MVP, and avenged Wembanyama in one night

Stephon Castle showed up to All-Star Weekend to compete in the Rising Stars Challenge and did exactly what Spurs fans knew he'd do: ball. It started with a steady performance in the first game of the Rising Stars Tournament. Castle put up six points on 50% shooting and threw in four rebounds and four assists. He was a +6, which was the second highest on the team in a 40-34 win over Team T.

The G-League team won their game against Team M, so the Spurs' rookie had a chance to even the score against the team that sent Victor Wembanyama packing last season. He didn't disappoint.

Castle made a statement in the Rising Stars Finals

The G-League Team was full of talented players. It included guys like third overall pick Reed Sheppard and two-time Dunk Contest winner Mac McClung. It didn't matter with Castle leading Team C on the other end. The team's defense was too good, and Castle was immaculate, controlling the game like a seasoned veteran.

Castle had 12 of the possible 25 points on 62.5% FG. He grabbed three boards, dished two assists, and played the stellar defense Spurs fans have come to know and love. It earned him the MVP of the Rising Stars Tournament and exactly 0% of Spurs Nation is surprised.

This kid is special, and he's shown it since he's stepped foot on the court for the Silver and Black. The UConn champion is the leader in Rookie of the Year odds, and his trajectory isn't showing signs of slowing down. He's been playing great ball for the team, and his promise is the reason why the front office refused to include him in the trade talks for De'Aaron Fox.

He'll be participating in the Slam Dunk Contest, showing no fear in an event that has lost most of its luster over the years. Stars used to enjoy competing in the event, but that hasn't been the case lately. Though Castle isn't yet a star, he certainly has the potential to be and his willingness to jump into an event like this is awesome for the game of basketball.

Spurs fans have a little something extra to look forward to if the stars align. Now that Castle and his team have won the Rising Stars Tournament, they'll have a shot to compete in Sunday's All-Star Tournament. They'll know be coached by WNBA legend Candace Parker, and they'll go up against Team Shaq, known as the OGs.

That team has Steph Curry, LeBron James, and Kevin Durant on it, so it's going to be tough, but those are old guys, right? Castle can take them. If he does, he'll have a chance to play Victor Wembanyama in the All-Star Tournament Finals. Of course, Wemby and company would have to do their job, but that's what Spurs fans are rooting for.

The All-Star Weekend may have stumbled onto something. We'll have to wait and see how it all plays out, but the different format is showing promise. The deciding factor will be determined by how the stars play Sunday night. We know how Wemby will be, though. Ready to go.