San Antonio Spurs guard Stephon Castle isn't backing down from the New York Knicks—he's doubling down. After a clutch performance in Game 3, Castle made a bold guarantee: the Spurs will win Game 4 and sweep the NBA Finals.
Castle sealed the Spurs' 32-point victory with two clutch free throws in the final seconds, finishing with 23 points, five rebounds, and five assists. While Victor Wembanyama grabbed headlines with his 32-point outing, Castle's icy composure under pressure stole the show.
“We made some strides in terms of the ball movement and playing with our teammates, setting screens, trusting the basketball would find the right guy for our shot,” Spurs coach Mitch Johnson said, via ESPN. “We showed better poise at times. We finished the game still with some things that need improvement, but stronger than we did the last few games.”
Speaking to ESPN's Malika Andrews ahead of Game 4, Castle didn't mince words. “I expect us to win the next three,” he declared. That includes Wednesday's matchup at Madison Square Garden, where the Knicks have been dominant all postseason.
NBA fans on social media were quick to push back. “I respect the confidence but there is no way you win 4 straight games and 3 on the road in the garden…. absolutely no way,” one fan wrote. Another added, “You only won cause of refs bro and an off night from our whole team next time don't lose both at home you are going back home down 3-1 buddy.”
Castle's guarantee has sparked debate, especially with the Knicks' passionate home crowd ready to rain down boos. The atmosphere at MSG has been electric all series, with even Rachel Nichols calling out the loudest boos in years during Game 3. Meanwhile, Michelle Beadle faces a painful Jalen Brunson tattoo if Spurs lose, adding another layer of stakes to the series.
Tipoff for Game 4 is at 8:30 p.m. ET on ABC. All eyes will be on Castle to see if his confidence translates to another win—or if the Knicks' home-court advantage proves too strong.
