Stephen Curry has redefined what it means to be a sharpshooter in the NBA. With a remarkable 15-year career, Curry has not only become the league's all-time leader in three-pointers made but has delivered some of the most iconic moments on the hardwood. Whether it’s draining a circus-like shot against the Los Angeles Clippers, hitting a buzzer-beater against the Oklahoma City Thunder, or leading his team to the best regular-season record in NBA history, Curry’s legacy continues to grow.
A Golden Dagger in Tokyo
No moment symbolizes Curry's clutch ability better than his performance in the gold medal match against France in the recent Olympic Games. Down the stretch, with the game hanging in the balance, Curry hit four consecutive three-pointers in the last two minutes. His final shot, a jaw-dropping, circus-like three-pointer, was so remarkable that it was dubbed the "golden dagger."
"It's so memorable because of the build up to that moment. My first Olympic experience, four 3s in a row to close out the gold medal game, and then that last one which was kind of a ridiculous shot even by my standards. So all that to say, it's like top 2 for sure," Curry reminisced.
The Birth of "Night Night"
That final three-pointer not only sealed the victory but introduced the world to Curry’s "night night" celebration. Following the shot, Curry debuted the now-famous gesture, a metaphorical lullaby bidding goodnight to the competition. It was a fitting end to a performance that showcased every facet of Curry's greatness – clutch shooting, flair, and showmanship.
Oklahoma City Thunder - Another Iconic Moment
While the gold medal match is a highlight, Curry himself places his buzzer-beater against the Oklahoma City Thunder in February 2016 at the top of his list. In a game that was not for a championship, Curry's shot still resonates deeply within the annals of NBA history. With the clock winding down, Curry hit a breathtaking three-pointer from beyond 30 feet, a shot punctuated by commentator Mike Breen’s emphatic "double bang."
"I think the OKC game [is No. 1]. Even though it wasn't a championship game, it's still one of the -- the Mike Breen double bang, just a loud shot and [it was] our rise as a team," Curry said, reflecting on that unforgettable moment.
Setting Records and Making History
Curry's legacy is also cemented by the Golden State Warriors’ historic 2015-2016 regular season. Under Curry’s leadership, the Warriors set a new NBA benchmark with 73 wins, surpassing the previous record held by the 1995-1996 Chicago Bulls. The Warriors' dominance that season was a testament to Curry’s revolutionary style of play and his ability to lift his team to unprecedented heights.
Another remarkable feat came when Curry matched the record for most three-pointers made in a single game during that same season with his sensational buzzer-beater against the Thunder. It was a testament to Curry’s consistency and an illustration of why he is considered one of the greatest shooters of all time.
The Circus Shot Against the Clippers
Adding to his list of unforgettable plays is a high-difficulty three-pointer made against the Los Angeles Clippers, where he was defended by no less than three players. This circus-like shot further showcased his extraordinary ability to deliver even under the most intense defensive pressure.
Stephen Curry’s career is a montage of such moments — each one amplifying his legend and setting the standard for future generations of players. His influence on the game, especially his three-point shooting prowess, continues to shape the way basketball is played at all levels. As his career advances, fans and analysts alike are eager to see what magic Curry will conjure next on the court.