Michael Jordan and Stephen Curry are considered two of the most influential NBA players of all time. Players in the 1990s and 2000s wanted to replicate Jordan’s garrulous exploits. Kobe Bryant is a prime example of the influence of “Air Jordan.” Curry, on the other hand, changed the game of basketball. Big men can shoot from deep, and fast breaks mean 27-footers from beyond the arc.
Jordan and Curry’s influence extends beyond elite basketball players who eventually become professional basketball players. Their influence has extended to casual fans and even those who don’t even play basketball.
Former NBA player Gilbert Arenas talked about how many people view Michael Jordan and Steph Curry:
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“Everybody thinks they can be Steph (Curry). Everybody wants to be Jordan. Everybody wants to be like Mike. … You can’t beat Mike, but we want to be Mike. … … Michael Jordan wanted us and made us want to be basketball players.”
Stephen Curry is the underdog story that basketball fans love to root for. He comes from a small college program and isn’t even considered the top point guard in the draft class. The former Davidson star expressed doubts about how his size and speed deficiencies would translate into the NBA. A nagging ankle injury early in his career only added more uncertainty to his future.
Curry not only overcame his doubters, but also won over many. He does this by continually showing the basketball world that shooting is just about the greatest equalizer. When a player can shoot, great size and athleticism take a step back.
Stephen Curry became basketball’s greatest shooter and revolutionized the game. Over the past decade, his influence has permeated every level of basketball. He also became a cultural icon that young fans could relate to.
Meanwhile, Michael Jordan is arguably the greatest basketball player of all time. It’s sometimes difficult for today’s generation of fans to understand just how completely dominant “His Air” was in his prime. There’s a reason the NBA named its MVP trophy after the iconic Chicago Bulls guard.
What Jordan accomplished on the basketball court is amazing. No one does it better than the six-time champion. As good as he was as a player, his impact could be even greater off the field. He is a cultural and pop icon that transcends his sport.
Stephen Curry hopes to get one step closer to Michael Jordan’s championship run
Stephen Curry and the Golden State Warriors are one of the teams with legitimate championship aspirations. They are the defending champions in 2022 but were unable to defend their title last season after being eliminated by the LeBron James-led Los Angeles Lakers.
With a restructured roster, Curry hopes to surpass James, who has four championships, and get closer to Michael Jordan’s six championships. “King James” himself admitted that he is also chasing “Jordan”‘s NBA championship.
Stephen Curry insisted this offseason that the Golden State Warriors have an experienced core but are more than capable of winning it all. He might finally get it done and get closer to “like Mike” with six championships.