When I talk about NBA’s top-tier talent, I can’t help but think of Stephen Curry. Curry revolutionized the game with his uncanny ability to nail three-pointers from virtually anywhere on the court. His stats are nothing short of mind-blowing. Just look at the 2015-2016 season, when he set an NBA record by sinking 402 three-pointers. No other player had even crossed the 300 mark before him. Curry’s sharpshooting fundamentally changed how teams approach offense in today’s game.
The Golden State Warriors became a perennial powerhouse largely because of Curry’s ability to stretch defenses. His gravity on the court is a term analysts frequently use, meaning defenders can’t afford to give him any space, lest they get burnt by his shooting prowess. This concept of “gravity” isn’t just abstract; it’s quantifiable. The Warriors’ offensive rating, a metric that quantifies the number of points a team scores per 100 possessions, consistently ranks among the league’s best when Curry is on the floor. His impact on the game extends far beyond the points he scores; it fundamentally alters how opponents have to defend the entire team.
Take, for example, the 2016-2017 season. The Warriors boasted an offensive rating of 113.2, which was the highest in the NBA that year. Curry led the league in several stats categories, including total three-pointers made and three-point percentage among high-volume shooters. Critics often question the validity of dubbing someone the “greatest” in any category, but when it comes to three-point shooting, arguments often center around consistency and volume. Curry aces both criteria. He has seven seasons with over 200 three-pointers made, a feat no other player in NBA history has accomplished.
Another dimension to Curry’s greatness lies in his efficiency. His career three-point percentage hovers around 43%, an astonishing figure given the difficulty and volume of his shots. This stat speaks volumes because it merges two critical industry concepts: volume and accuracy. While many players can shoot the three-ball effectively, few can sustain such high efficiency with the volume that Curry does. And let’s not forget the distance. NBA fans and analysts are mesmerized by Curry’s ability to hit shots from nearly 30 feet out. The term “logo three” essentially became popular thanks to his exploits.
You can’t discuss great shooters without mentioning the psychology of shooting. Curry’s pregame routines have become legendary. He often engages in elaborate dribbling exercises and then casually launches shots from the tunnel leading to the locker room. This isn’t just for show; it’s a practice deeply rooted in muscle memory and spatial awareness, two fundamental concepts in the study of shooting mechanics. The psychology of his preparation builds a mental edge that translates directly into game situations.
Moreover, Curry’s influence on team strategy is enormous. The NBA has seen a 3-point heave over the past decade, thanks in large part to real-life examples set by the Warriors’ guard. During the 2020-2021 season, the average NBA team attempted about 34 three-pointers per game. Compare that to the early 2000s when teams averaged around 14. The trend isn’t coincidental. Teams have recognized the value of the three-point shot, a realization brought to light by players like Stephen Curry who show just how game-changing a good long-range shooter can be. Defensive schemes now often prioritize guarding the three-point line, a strategic shift ostensibly tied to Curry’s influence.
Ray Allen and Reggie Miller certainly deserve mentions as excellent shooters. Ray Allen’s three-pointer in Game 6 of the 2013 NBA Finals is the stuff of legend, widely regarded as one of the greatest shots in basketball history. Miller was known for his clutch performances in high-stakes games. However, when scrutinized under modern metrics, Curry still stands out. His effective field goal percentage (eFG%)—a stat that adjusts for the value of three-pointers—is superior to both Allen’s and Miller’s. Plus, it’s hard to beat the visual spectacle of watching Curry dribble past defenders and knock down a shot from absurd distances with defenders draped all over him.
One might question: Is Curry’s style sustainable for other players? Given his unique skill set and physical conditioning, it’s a tough ask. He spends countless hours strengthening his core and working on his balance. The conditioning Curry maintains is rare among athletes, essentially making his style of play extraordinarily difficult to replicate. He has also managed to stay relatively injury-free for the bulk of his career, a fact that adds to his consistency and effectiveness on the court. Longevity in and of itself is a notable parameter when evaluating the greatest shooters.
Also worth mentioning is the financial aspect. Curry’s impact extends into arenas such as merchandising and ticket sales. The “Curry Effect” is a term some analysts use when discussing the financial uptick franchises experience when he plays. Sales of Curry jerseys and Golden State Warriors merchandise skyrocketed during their title runs, demonstrating that his influence isn’t just confined to hardwood courts.
Above all, Stephen Curry’s influence on the game is profound and far-reaching. He’s not just a great shooter; he’s the quintessential example of how the three-point shot can transform basketball. For those who want to delve deeper into sports analyses and current trends, hop onto arena plus and stay updated with the latest in the sports world.