With the glow of yet another NBA season under their belts, basketball enthusiasts are now beginning to grapple with the fading careers of some of the league's brightest stars. Among them, Steph Curry’s illustrious career with the Golden State Warriors is drawing increasing attention as he openly recognizes its impending conclusion.
At 36 years old, and currently playing his 16th season, Curry has proven himself as one of the game's iconic figures, but even the greatest eventually have to face the music. Recently, during an interview with ESPN's Malika Andrews, he shared insights reflecting the reality of his situation. "Accepting and recognizing the fact the end is near is important. It allows you to cherish the moment even more," Curry stated.
This candid acknowledgment coincides with the Warriors’ current performance challenges. After starting the season strong with 12 wins against 3 losses, the team has struggled, recently falling to eighth place with 15 wins and 13 losses following four defeats out of their last five games. This rollercoaster has raised more urgency for Curry, who, maintaining averages of 21.8 points, 5.0 rebounds, and 6.6 assists, sees the residue of inconsistent performances with his own scoring dipping to levels not observed since the injury-riddled 2019-20 season.
Despite these struggles, Curry's shooting skills remain remarkable, sporting a three-point percentage of 40.3. Yet, inconsistency has been the name of the game recently. For example, Curry's performance on December 20 against the Memphis Grizzlies was dismal—he missed all seven shots he attempted, finishing with just two points. Thankfully, he rebounded well just two days later, netting 31 points against the Minnesota Timberwolves. But then, he experienced another rough outing on Christmas Eve against the Indiana Pacers, shooting only 15.4 percent.
Expectations are high for someone of Curry's caliber, especially with the Warriors’ historical significance over the past decade. Much of the team's greatness started under the guidance of former coach Mark Jackson, who, during his tenure, laid the groundwork for the team's success. Jackson was praised by former Pistons great Isaiah Thomas on the recent podcast “The Mark Jackson Show,” stating, "Steph Curry is the greatest shooter of all time. I hope he remembers you’s (Jackson) because of his confidence..."
Now, with the current head coach Steve Kerr at the helm, the Warriors have transitioned since their breakthrough season. Curry, Thompson, and Draymond Green formed the iconic trio responsible for multiple championship wins, but they’re now not only battling physical limitations but also heightened expectations. Curry understands these challenges well, commenting, "Draymond Green and I are no longer at our peak. Our approach to the game is different now. If we can't win, questions arise about how we can turn things around."
The franchise’s hopes rest heavily on Curry’s shoulders as he continues to adapt and lead through fluctuated performances. Despite the ups and downs, the record speaks for itself. He boasts four NBA championships, two regular-season MVPs, and one Finals MVP title. He remains the league's all-time leader in three-pointers made, with 3,841 during regular seasons and another 618 during playoffs, setting the bar high for future generations.
This season, as the Warriors head toward Christmas, they are poised to face LeBron James and the Los Angeles Lakers on December 25, marking what could be one of the final matchups between two of the game’s all-time greats. Much hype surrounds the game as both teams push for playoff contention, but it may also signify the beginning of the end for this legendary rivalry. Curry acknowledges this notion, emphasizing, "I feel the urgency of my limited time and my desire to win has never been stronger."
One of the defining facets of Curry's game has always been his innovative shooting ability, capable of making baskets from seemingly impossible distances—transforming the way the sport is played and perceived. His legacy, punctuated by achievements and impact, will undoubtedly secure his spot as one of basketball's legends when he eventually hangs up his sneakers. The imminent confrontation with James adds yet another layer of poignancy as fans prepare to witness the potential farewell tour of two icons simultaneously.
Whether the Warriors can regain their earlier form and push for another title during Curry's tenure remains to be seen. But fans will continue to relish every moment with Curry on the court, recognizing and cherishing each game as one step closer to the inevitable conclusion of his impactful career.
