Key Takeaways
- Stephen Curry surpassed Kobe Bryant for second-most games with 25+ points after turning 30.
- Curry now trails only Michael Jordan in this statistical category.
- Despite battling illness, Curry scored 28 points against the Phoenix Suns, demonstrating his continued dominance.
- Curry’s durability and late-career surge have solidified his place among basketball’s all-time greats.
- His unique impact, particularly his three-point prowess, sparks ongoing debates about his standing compared to legends like Jordan and Bryant.
Stephen Curry, the Golden State Warriors’ iconic point guard, continues to cement his legacy among basketball’s elite. His remarkable career has been punctuated by numerous achievements, and his recent performance against the Phoenix Suns added another milestone to his illustrious resume. By scoring 28 points in the game, Curry recorded his 252nd game with 25 or more points since turning 30, as noted by OptaStats. This feat propelled him past the late Kobe Bryant, who had 251 such games, for second place all-time in this category.
The only player ahead of Curry in this particular statistic is none other than Michael Jordan, widely regarded as the greatest basketball player of all time. Jordan accumulated 256 games with 25 or more points after reaching the age of 30. With Curry’s exceptional scoring ability and the Warriors still having a significant portion of the season remaining, he has a strong chance of surpassing Jordan’s record before the season’s end. This potential achievement would further solidify Curry’s place among the pantheon of basketball legends.
Adding to the impressiveness of Curry’s recent accomplishment is the fact that he played against the Suns while feeling under the weather. He acknowledged battling an illness, making his 28-point performance even more noteworthy. This dedication and ability to perform at a high level despite physical challenges highlight his commitment and passion for the game. However, Warriors fans will have to wait to see Curry chase down Jordan’s record as he is out for the second game of a back-to-back due to his illness.
Curry’s late-career surge is particularly remarkable given the injury challenges he faced earlier in his career. While he dealt with persistent setbacks in his younger years, he has since transformed into a remarkably durable player, especially considering the physical demands placed on aging guards. This resilience has allowed him to maintain a high level of performance well into his thirties, enabling him to reach milestones such as surpassing Bryant in this scoring statistic.
Curry’s growing list of accomplishments continues to fuel discussions about his place among the all-time greats. His mastery of the three-point shot has revolutionized the game and sets him apart from many of his predecessors. While some argue that his reliance on the three-pointer makes him a different type of player than Jordan or Bryant, others point to it as a key element of his unique greatness. Regardless of where one stands in this debate, there is no denying Curry’s exceptional talent, skill, and impact on the sport. He has undoubtedly earned his place among the legends, and this latest achievement is just another way he inscribes his name in basketball history. Curry’s influence transcends mere statistics; he inspires a new generation of players and fans with his dedication, sportsmanship, and electrifying style of play.
