The power of Steph Curry: His influence as the player’s voice in team decisions

Steve Kerr, the head coach of the Golden State Warriors, spoke to the media after their narrow 108-104 loss to the Phoenix Suns to open the season.

While it’s common knowledge that NBA superstars have a say in team decisions, the extent of that influence often remains behind closed doors.

Bob Myers, the Warriors’ former general manager, provided a rare glimpse into that dynamic in an ESPN piece. He stressed that he would always seek Steph Curry’s opinion before making important decisions about another star player.

Bob Myers explained, “When I’m making decisions, I would approach Steph Curry or Joel Embiid and ask, ‘What do you want?’ Their answer would guide my actions.” For Myers, keeping Curry happy was the most important thing.

That meant getting Steph Curry’s approval for major changes to the squad was essential to team harmony and success.

Draymond Green: The Warriors’ heartbeat is Steph Curry

Myers also recounted an instance when he consulted Steph Curry about Draymond Green, a longtime teammate. Myers said, “If Curry is not happy, the conversation ends there.

Draymond Green has told me many times that I’ve made mistakes. I would then ask him what went wrong. But when I call Curry on it, he says, ‘We’re better with Draymond.'”

Myers did not say exactly when that conversation took place, but Draymond Green’s time with the Warriors was marked by controversy. However, as Steph Curry pointed out, the Warriors thrive with Green on the court.

The front office recognized this and recently signed Green to a four-year, $100 million contract. Green’s defensive skills and emotional intensity have often been the catalysts for the Warriors’ most memorable moments.

The Steph Curry legacy: Beyond the arc and beyond

The Golden State Warriors have consistently challenged for the Western Conference title over the past decade.

While Klay Thompson and Draymond Green have been instrumental in the team’s success, Steph Curry remains the cornerstone of the franchise.

He is considered one of the all-time greats and is undoubtedly the best shooter in NBA history. StephCurry has revolutionized the perception of the three-point shot.

He indelibly changed the dynamics of the game and made the three-point shot the weapon of choice for teams across the league. After 15 years in the NBA, Curry is still a major challenge for his opponents.

Gary Payton II, Curry’s teammate, was overheard during a recent practice session expressing his awe at Curry’s abilities. Payton noted, “Protecting him is a challenge. The moment you relax, he’s open. His movements are quick, and he just needs a little space.”

Jonathan Kuminga, another teammate, noted that many assume Steph Curry might lose the ball off the dribble, but his ball-handling skills are as exceptional as his shooting. Payton responded simply, “It’s all so seamless”

The evolution of the game: Steph Curry’s influence

Stephen Curry’s influence goes beyond the Golden State Warriors. He has changed the way basketball is played by bringing speed, agility and long-range shooting to the forefront.

Young players today grow up trying to emulate Curry’s style, practicing deep three-point shots and intricate dribbling.

Despite being a nine-time All-Star, a two-time MVP and the MVP of the 2022 NBA Finals, Curry continues to showcase his unparalleled shooting skills at age 35. Payton added, “Nobody moves or shoots like Curry. He’s really one of a kind.”

Looking ahead: The Warriors’ journey

The Warriors suffered a loss in the 2023-24 season opener, but Steph Curry’s offensive prowess was evident. He scored 27 points, including four three-pointers, on an 8-for-20 shooting percentage.

The NBA community is well aware of Curry’s abilities. He can effortlessly deliver outstanding performances, a trait that sets him apart. As Gary Payton II has observed, Curry’s game comes so naturally.

One of the league’s true superstars, Steph Curry, shows no signs of slowing down. He looks to lead the Warriors to their first win of the new season in the upcoming game against the Sacramento Kings. With Curry at the helm, the future looks bright for the Golden State Warriors.

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If you’re a die-hard Golden State Warriors fan like me, there’s always something to talk about when it comes to this team.

Be sure to visit the community page of our YouTube channel, where you’ll find several quizzes and polls about the Golden State Warriors to test your knowledge.

Also, check out our other videos on different aspects of the team.