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Stephen Curry Defies Age and Gravity: The Oldest Player to Achieve This Historic NBA Milestone
In the ever-evolving world of the NBA, where athleticism is revered, age often becomes a limiting factor for many players. However, there are exceptions to this rule — rare individuals who manage to defy the limitations of time, pushing their bodies beyond what was once thought possible. Stephen Curry, the Golden State Warriors’ superstar, is one of those exceptions. Recently, Curry achieved a remarkable milestone that further cements his legacy in the annals of basketball history: he became the oldest player in NBA history to reach a significant statistical achievement. Not only does this put him in exclusive company, but it also places him alongside the game’s legends, including Michael Jordan.
The Context of the Milestone
As of the 2024-2025 NBA season, Stephen Curry became the oldest player in the NBA to achieve a stat that has been revered for decades: surpassing a specific career point or three-point record. In this case, Curry broke the milestone of hitting his 3,000th career three-pointer, a feat no player had accomplished before at his age. This achievement is historic not just for the sheer volume of points but for the incredible longevity and consistency required to attain it. Curry, who turned 37 years old during this season, has now etched his name into NBA history as a player who defied the natural aging process, defying expectations in a league that is notorious for rewarding youth and athleticism.
At 37, Curry is entering an age range where most players are either transitioning into smaller roles or retiring altogether. While many of his peers, such as LeBron James, have also proven that greatness doesn’t necessarily fade with age, Curry’s ability to remain at the top of his game is a testament to his work ethic, physical conditioning, and unmatched skill level. His shooting range, particularly from beyond the arc, remains as lethal as ever, even as he grows older.
The Significance of This Milestone
The achievement is significant not just because of its rarity, but also because of who Stephen Curry joins in the conversation when we look at such milestones. In the realm of NBA history, longevity and consistency are two qualities that separate the all-time greats from mere stars. By becoming the oldest player to reach this landmark, Curry joins an elite list of players who have maintained their excellence well into their 30s.
The most prominent figure among them is none other than Michael Jordan, a player whose name is synonymous with basketball greatness. Jordan, who played at an elite level into his 40s, set numerous records that continue to stand the test of time. While Jordan’s career is often viewed as the standard for what it means to be the greatest, Curry’s path is carving out a legacy of its own, marked by innovation and perseverance.
Curry’s journey to this milestone is a reflection of the changing nature of the game. In his early years, the NBA was dominated by a physical style of play with towering big men. However, Curry revolutionized the sport with his shooting, showing the world that a small, undersized guard could dominate through precision, skill, and range. His ability to stretch the floor with his incredible three-point shooting has forced other players to evolve, and even teams to reshape their offensive strategies.
Defying Gravity and Father Time
When considering the physical demands of the NBA, Curry’s success is even more remarkable. As a player who relies heavily on movement and quick release, his game is one that demands supreme athleticism. However, as players age, they often find their bodies breaking down, especially in the high-intensity environment of the NBA. Yet, Curry has maintained his speed, agility, and shooting accuracy, defying the usual trajectory of most aging players.
While other players, like LeBron James, have also defied age with their incredible physical attributes, Curry’s success relies less on size and athleticism and more on finesse, skill, and basketball IQ. His ability to take over a game with his shooting — and his decision-making ability — has allowed him to age like fine wine. For Curry, the game has never been about physicality, but rather an understanding of space, timing, and precision.
In his case, this milestone is not just about achieving a statistical feat but about continuing to redefine expectations. Curry’s longevity in the NBA proves that as long as one can adapt and evolve their game, age doesn’t have to be an obstacle. This ability to innovate and reinvent oneself is a rare trait that places Curry in the rarefied air of basketball immortals.
A Shared Legacy with Michael Jordan
When comparing Curry to Michael Jordan, the parallels are undeniable. Both players have dominated their respective eras and achieved greatness on the biggest stages. While their playing styles differ — with Jordan being more of a mid-range and post scorer and Curry being the greatest shooter the game has ever seen — the results are the same: dominance and excellence.
Both players also faced challenges along the way, but their ability to rise above adversity is what truly sets them apart. Jordan, for instance, was famously cut from his high school basketball team, only to become the greatest player of all time. Curry, meanwhile, entered the NBA with doubts about his size and strength, yet he eventually transformed into one of the most influential players in the history of the sport.
The comparison between the two is now more than just about their on-court performances. It’s about the impact they have had on the game and the legacy they are leaving behind. Curry, like Jordan, has transcended the sport and become a global icon. He has become the face of an era, much like Jordan was in the 1990s. What makes Curry’s legacy particularly impressive is how he has revolutionized the game with his shooting, influencing a generation of players and teams.
The Impact on the Golden State Warriors
For the Golden State Warriors, Curry’s achievement is a testament to their commitment to building a championship-caliber team around him. Curry has been the heart and soul of the Warriors since being drafted in 2009. His leadership and ability to perform under pressure have led the Warriors to multiple championships, making them one of the most successful franchises of the past decade.
Curry’s longevity and continued success are also a reflection of the Warriors’ ability to surround him with complementary pieces, including players like Klay Thompson, Draymond Green, and now the younger stars like Andrew Wiggins and Jordan Poole. The Warriors have built a culture of excellence, one that not only allows Curry to continue to thrive but also ensures the team remains competitive in the face of changing dynamics in the NBA.
A Bright Future Ahead
Though Curry’s recent milestone may suggest he’s nearing the end of his career, there’s no telling how much more he can achieve. As long as he can continue playing at this level, Curry will keep adding to his already impressive legacy. Whether it’s chasing more championships, breaking more records, or mentoring the next generation of players, one thing is certain: Curry’s place in NBA history is secure.
At 37, Stephen Curry is proving that age is merely a number. His ability to continue breaking records and achieving milestones that most players only dream of is a testament to his unparalleled skill, work ethic, and love for the game. As he rubs shoulders with the likes of Michael Jordan, Curry reminds us all that greatness knows no bounds, especially when you’re willing to defy gravity and the passage of time.
