Stephen Curry is not just a name in basketball—he’s a phenomenon, a revolution in sneakers, and a legend still in the making. Known for his unparalleled shooting ability, Curry has redefined what it means to be an elite shooter in the NBA. His influence on the game is undeniable, with former players, analysts, and fans alike recognizing him as the greatest shooter the league has ever seen. But what makes Curry so special? Why do former NBA stars heap such high praise on him? Let’s dive into the reasons behind the widespread admiration for Curry and explore how his unique talents have changed the game of basketball forever.
A Revolution in the Game
When Stephen Curry entered the NBA as the seventh overall pick in the 2009 draft, few could have predicted the seismic impact he would have on the game. Standing at 6’2″ and weighing 185 pounds, Curry was often overlooked due to his size and perceived lack of athleticism. However, it wasn’t long before he proved his doubters wrong, showcasing a shooting prowess that the league had never seen before.
Curry’s influence on the game is far-reaching. His ability to shoot from seemingly impossible distances has forced defenses to stretch further out, opening up the court in ways that were previously unimaginable. The three-point shot, once considered a specialty weapon, is now a cornerstone of every team’s offense, largely thanks to Curry’s success. But beyond the numbers and accolades, it’s the respect and admiration from his peers and predecessors that truly cements his legacy.
High Praise from the Legends
In the world of professional sports, respect from your peers is the highest form of validation. For Stephen Curry, that respect has come in droves, particularly from those who once dominated the NBA hardwood. Former NBA stars, including some of the greatest players in history, have been effusive in their praise for Curry, often labeling him as the best shooter the game has ever seen.
Magic Johnson: “He Changed the Game
Magic Johnson, one of the greatest point guards in NBA history, has been vocal about Curry’s impact on basketball. “Stephen Curry changed the game,” Johnson said in an interview. “The way teams play today, the focus on the three-point shot, that’s all because of him. He’s the best shooter we’ve ever seen, hands down.”
Johnson’s words carry significant weight. As a five-time NBA champion and a player who revolutionized the point guard position himself, Johnson’s endorsement of Curry is a testament to just how transformative Curry’s influence has been.
Reggie Miller: “He’s on a Different Level
Reggie Miller, a Hall of Fame shooter known for his clutch performances and three-point accuracy, has also heaped praise on Curry. “I thought I was a pretty good shooter until I saw Stephen Curry,” Miller quipped during a broadcast. “He’s on a different level. The way he shoots, the way he moves without the ball—it’s something I’ve never seen before.”
For Miller, a player who once held the record for most career three-pointers made, to acknowledge Curry’s superiority speaks volumes. It’s a recognition of the unique skill set that has allowed Curry to dominate in ways that few players in history ever have.
Ray Allen: “He’s the Standard”
Ray Allen, who surpassed Miller as the NBA’s all-time leader in three-pointers made before being overtaken by Curry, has also spoken highly of Curry’s abilities. “Stephen Curry is the standard now,” Allen said in an interview. “Every young player coming up wants to shoot like him, and that’s because he’s the best we’ve ever seen at it.”
Allen’s comments highlight how Curry has become the benchmark for shooting excellence in the NBA. Young players today don’t just aspire to play in the NBA—they want to shoot like Stephen Curry, a testament to his enduring impact on the game.
What Sets Curry Apart?
So, what is it that makes Stephen Curry so special? How has he managed to earn the respect and admiration of some of the greatest players in NBA history? The answer lies in a combination of factors that make Curry a truly unique talent.
Unrivaled Shooting Accuracy
At the core of Curry’s greatness is his shooting accuracy. Whether he’s pulling up from 30 feet, launching a step-back three, or shooting off the dribble, Curry’s ability to consistently make shots from anywhere on the court is unparalleled. His career three-point shooting percentage hovers around 43%, an astounding figure given the volume and difficulty of the shots he takes.
Curry’s shooting form is a thing of beauty—quick, compact, and repeatable. His release is so fast that defenders often don’t have time to contest his shots, even when they’re right in his face. This combination of accuracy and quickness has made Curry the most feared shooter in the league.
Range That Redefines the Court
One of the most significant ways Curry has changed the game is by expanding the range from which players are expected to shoot. In the past, the three-point line was considered the outer limit for most players, but Curry regularly takes and makes shots from well beyond that mark. His ability to hit shots from 30, 35, or even 40 feet has forced defenses to guard him as soon as he crosses half court, fundamentally altering the way the game is played.
Movement Without the Ball
Another key aspect of Curry’s game is his movement without the ball. While many great shooters rely on their ability to create their own shot, Curry excels at getting open through constant movement. He’s a master of running off screens, curling around picks, and finding the smallest windows to get his shot off. This relentless movement makes him nearly impossible to defend, as defenders must chase him all over the court while trying to avoid getting picked off by his teammates.
Basketball IQ and Playmaking
While Curry is best known for his shooting, his basketball IQ and playmaking abilities are also elite. He’s a highly intelligent player who understands spacing, timing, and how to manipulate defenses. Curry’s gravity—his ability to draw defenders out of position because of his shooting threat—creates opportunities for his teammates. Whether it’s setting up an easy dunk with a no-look pass or finding an open shooter in the corner, Curry’s playmaking is a critical component of his game.
Work Ethic and Leadership
Beyond his on-court skills, Curry’s work ethic and leadership have played a significant role in his success. He’s known for his tireless dedication to improving his game, spending countless hours in the gym perfecting his shot and working on his conditioning. This work ethic has made him a role model for young players, both within the NBA and around the world.
Curry’s leadership style is also notable. Unlike some superstars who lead with a more vocal or confrontational approach, Curry leads by example. His humility, work ethic, and positive attitude have endeared him to his teammates and coaches, creating a culture of unselfishness and teamwork that has been a hallmark of the Golden State Warriors’ success.
The Impact on the Next Generation
Stephen Curry’s influence extends beyond his own career. He has inspired a new generation of players to prioritize shooting and develop their skills from beyond the arc. Young players across the world now emulate Curry’s style, practicing deep threes and quick releases in hopes of becoming the next great shooter.
Curry’s impact is also evident in the way the game is played at all levels. From high school to college to the NBA, the emphasis on three-point shooting has never been greater. Teams now build their offenses around the three-point line, and players are encouraged to shoot from distance, even if it means taking shots from well beyond the arc. This shift in strategy is a direct result of Curry’s success and his ability to change the game through his shooting.
Stephen Curry is, without a doubt, the greatest shooter in NBA history. His combination of accuracy, range, movement, and basketball IQ has redefined what it means to be an elite shooter in the league. The high praise he receives from former NBA stars like Magic Johnson, Reggie Miller, and Ray Allen only solidifies his status as a generational talent who has left an indelible mark on the game.
As Curry continues to add to his already illustrious career, his legacy as the best shooter the game has ever seen will only grow stronger. Whether he’s draining threes from 35 feet, leading the Warriors to another championship, or inspiring the next generation of players, Stephen Curry’s impact on basketball will be felt for years to come.