NBA great Steph Curry recently celebrated his 35th birthday and is now just two seasons away from matching his father’s 16-season career in the league. Despite his age, Curry continues to perform at a high level, recently scoring 36 and 23 points in wins against the Bucks and Suns after returning from injury.
In an interview with Andscape, Curry expressed that he feels better than he expected at this stage in his career, hinting that retirement is not on his mind. He credited his longevity to seeking advice from NFL stars like Tom Brady and Aaron Rodgers on how to extend their careers past the halfway point.
Similar to LeBron James and Chris Paul, who continue to play at a high level in their late 30s, Curry seems to have plenty left in the tank. Reflecting on his age, Curry remains optimistic about his future in the league and enjoys the process of continually improving his game.
Steph Curry dominated NBA rival Chris Paul in the Golden State Warriors’ victory against the Phoenix Suns, showcasing his skills on the court (Image: Getty).
He reflected on the challenge of maintaining peak performance in his thirties, with the age of 40 now a target to strive for. The trend of athletes excelling well into their thirties has been seen across various sports, with Curry poised to join the likes of LeBron James, Tom Brady, Aaron Rodgers, Lionel Messi, and Cristiano Ronaldo in that elite category.
Starting his NBA career in 2009 as the seventh overall pick, Curry initially aimed to match his father’s 16-season tenure in the league. However, as he approaches that milestone, he acknowledges the physical toll his father endured towards the end of his career, highlighting the changing perceptions of an athlete’s prime years.
Curry’s season has been hampered by injuries, impacting his MVP candidacy and drawing criticism. Yet, his remarkable playoff performances last year silenced many doubters, solidifying his place among the NBA greats. Leading his team to another deep postseason run could further cement his legacy and silence any remaining skeptics.
The Warriors have faced challenges this season, including injuries, poor form, and team discord, leading to inconsistencies in their performance and a lower standing in the Western Conference. To improve their record, especially on the road where they have struggled, Curry’s leadership and exceptional skills will be crucial, particularly as they aim for another NBA Finals victory like the one in 2022.