.jpg)
1 hour ago
2
It's not totally colloquial, but the stat "stocks" is a fascinating basketball concept that can really show defensive impact.
Steals plus blocks -- that's one thing that stands out about Rafael Castro, who finished his college career at George Washington and probably could've been drafted, but was instead signed after the draft to a two-way contract by the Milwaukee Bucks as an undrafted free agent.
Castro, ranked by USA Today as their No. 2 available undrafted player, brings a fascinating game to Milwaukee.
Clearly nothing is a given for an undrafted player. But Castro has the wide-ranging skillset to have a chance. And it starts with the stocks.
The lanky 6-foot-10 forward averaged 1.8 steals and 1.7 blocks per game in his final season at GW. It was his second consecutive season averaging at least 1.2 in both categories.
MORE: Why the Hornets traded LaMelo Ball to the Timberwolves
Castro hadn't played much in his first two college seasons at Providence, but he grew into his own at George Washington.
In 2025-26, he put up 15.3 points and 9.1 rebounds per game while shooting 62.7% from the floor.
His one main downside -- he didn't attempt a single 3-pointer. He'll have to do everything else well to make up for that in the NBA.
Castro has an uphill climb ahead of him, but he's got the right ingredients. Defense, length, rebounding, skill around the basket -- those all give him a chance to get on the court.
If he keeps blocking shots and stealing the basketball, the Bucks will want to find a way to use him.
English (US)