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Wardell Stephen Curry II, popularly known as Steph Curry, has left an indelible mark on the National Basketball Association (NBA). His electrifying style of play, unmatched shooting prowess, and leadership have made him a household name. But just how long has this basketball icon been gracing the NBA courts? Let’s delve into the fascinating journey of Steph Curry’s NBA career.
Part 1: The Early Years
1. The Draft Steal (2009)
Steph Curry’s NBA journey began in 2009 when the Golden State Warriors selected him as the seventh overall pick in the NBA Draft. At that time, Curry was fresh out of Davidson College, where he had dazzled fans with his scoring ability. Little did the Warriors know that they were about to acquire a player who would redefine the game.
2. The Learning Curve (2009-2012)
In his initial three NBA seasons, Curry was still finding his footing. Despite his impressive college career, he needed time to adjust to the professional level. However, by his fourth season, something clicked. The Warriors traded Monta Ellis, clearing the way for Curry to take center stage.
3. Chef Curry Unleashed (2014-2015)
Year four was a turning point for Curry. In the 2014-2015 season, he exploded onto the scene, leading the Warriors to their first NBA championship in 40 years. His regular-season stats were eye-popping: 23.8 points per game, nearly 49% shooting, including a scorching 44.3% from beyond the arc, and a league-leading 91.4% free throw percentage. Curry’s playmaking skills were equally impressive, averaging 7.7 assists per game. He deservedly earned the regular-season MVP title.
4. Dominance with Durant (2016-2017)
When Kevin Durant joined the Warriors in 2016, the team became an unstoppable force. Durant’s arrival didn’t overshadow Curry; instead, it elevated his game. During the 2016-2017 season, Curry averaged 25.3 points, 6.6 assists, and 1.8 steals per game. Although Durant claimed the Finals MVP, Curry’s impact remained undeniable.
5. The 32-Point Show (2020-2021)
The shortened 2020-2021 season due to COVID-19 didn’t hinder Curry. Quite the opposite—he reached a career-high, averaging an astonishing 32.0 points per game. His shooting percentages were remarkable: 48.2% from the field, 42.1% from three-point range, and an impressive 91.6% from the foul line. Curry’s offensive explosion was a testament to his relentless work ethic.
6. The Splash Brother Era (2015-2019)
Steph Curry’s partnership with Klay Thompson, affectionately known as the “Splash Brothers,” revolutionized the game. Their combined three-point shooting prowess was unparalleled. During this period, Curry continued to dazzle fans with his deep-range bombs. In the 2015-2016 season, he shattered his own record by sinking an astonishing 402 three-pointers—a feat that seemed otherworldly.
7. Back-to-Back MVPs (2015-2016)
Curry’s impact extended beyond statistics. His style of play influenced a new generation of players. In the 2015-2016 season, he became the first unanimous MVP in NBA history. His averages were staggering: 30.1 points per game, 5.4 rebounds, and 6.7 assists. The Warriors finished the regular season with a jaw-dropping 73-9 record, surpassing the legendary 1995-1996 Chicago Bulls.
8. Injuries and Resilience (2019-2020)
Injuries plagued Curry during the 2019-2020 season. A broken hand sidelined him for a significant portion of the year. However, true to his warrior spirit, he returned with a vengeance. Despite the setbacks, Curry’s impact remained undeniable. His leadership on and off the court inspired his teammates.
9. The Age-Defying Phenomenon (2020-Present)
As of 2024, Steph Curry continues to defy age. At 34 years old, he remains a force to be reckoned with. His scoring ability, court vision, and clutch performances are timeless. In the 2023-2024 season, he achieved another milestone: surpassing 3,000 career three-pointers. No one has ever combined volume and efficiency from beyond the arc like Curry.