How Many Seasons Has Stephen Curry Played?: Stephen Curry, widely regarded as one of the greatest shooters in NBA history, has had an illustrious career that has transformed the game of basketball. Known for his incredible range and precision beyond the three-point arc, Curry has set new standards for what is possible on the basketball court. But how many seasons has he played? As of the end of the 2023-2024 season, Stephen Curry has completed 15 full seasons in the NBA, all with the Golden State Warriors.
This article will take a deep dive into Curry’s journey through these seasons, highlighting the key moments that defined his career, his numerous accolades, and the way he revolutionized the sport.
Stephen Curry Early Years (2009-2013)
Stephen Curry entered the NBA as the 7th overall pick in the 2009 NBA Draft, selected by the Golden State Warriors. Coming out of Davidson College, Curry was known for his shooting ability, but few predicted the enormous impact he would have on the game. In his rookie season (2009-2010), Curry quickly made a name for himself, averaging 17.5 points, 5.9 assists, and 4.5 rebounds per game. Though he was snubbed for Rookie of the Year honors, Curry’s potential was clear.
However, the early years of Curry’s career were marred by frequent ankle injuries, which caused him to miss significant time. During his first three seasons, he struggled to stay on the court consistently, with his playing time limited to 80 games in his first season, but dropping to 26 games in 2011-2012 due to recurring injuries. These early setbacks made many question whether Curry could stay healthy long enough to fulfill his potential.
Breakthrough and MVP Seasons (2014-2016)
After battling injuries for much of his early career, the 2013-2014 season marked a turning point for Curry.
- He played 78 games that season, establishing himself as a top-tier NBA player. Curry led the Warriors to the playoffs with impressive performances, averaging 24.0 points and 8.5 assists per game.
- He was named the NBA’s Most Valuable Player (MVP) for the first time, leading the Warriors to their first NBA Championship in 40 years.
In 2014-2015, Curry took his game to new heights. That season, Curry averaged 23.8 points, 7.7 assists, and 4.3 rebounds per game. His combination of shooting, ball-handling, and basketball IQ made him one of the most dangerous players in the league. The Warriors run to the championship put Curry and the team on the map as a modern-day dynasty in the making.
The 2015-2016 season saw Curry have arguably the top individual season of his career. He won his second consecutive MVP award, becoming the first player in NBA history to be unanimously selected. He averaged 30.1 points per game while shooting 50.4% from the field, 45.4% from three-point range, and 90.8% from the f..-throw line. Curry also led the Warriors to a record-breaking 73-9 regular-season record, surpassing the 1995-1996 Chicago Bulls previous record of 72-10. Though the Warriors fell short of winning the championship that year, Curry’s individual accomplishments were historic.
Injury Struggles and Comebacks (2017-2020)
After winning two MVP awards and leading the Warriors to multiple championships, Curry’s career took a hit in the subsequent seasons due to various injuries. In the 2017-2018 season, Curry missed 31 games due to ankle injuries but returned to help the Warriors win their third championship in four years. His resilience and ability to perform under pressure, even when not fully healthy, solidified his status as one of the game’s greatest.
However, the 2019-2020 season was particularly challenging for Curry. He played only five games after suffering a hand injury that required surgery. The Warriors, who had dominated the league for several years, finished with the worst record in the NBA, as key players like Klay Thompson were also sidelined with injuries.
Curry’s absence during the 2019-2020 season allowed other players to step up, but it also left a void that underscored just how critical he was to the Warriors success. Many speculated whether Curry could return to his pre-injury form after such a significant layoff.
Stephen Curry MVP Form (2021-Present)
After a season of setbacks, Stephen Curry came back stronger than ever in the 2020-2021 season. At 36 years old, Curry led the NBA in scoring, averaging 32.0 points per game, proving that he was still among the league’s elite. His performances during the season earned him his seventh All-Star selection and solidified his place in the MVP conversation.
The following season (2021-2022) was a special one for Curry and the Warriors. Curry not only surpassed Ray Allen for the most three-pointers made in NBA history, but he also led the Warriors to their fourth championship in eight years. Curry was named Finals MVP for the first time in his career, an award that had eluded him despite his pivotal role in previous championships.
As of the 2023-2024 season, Stephen Curry continues to play at an elite level. His leadership on the court, his unmatched shooting ability, and his capacity to rise to the occasion in key moments have cemented his legacy as one of the greatest basketball players of all time.
Curry’s Impact on the Game
Stephen Curry’s impact on the game of basketball extends far beyond his individual accolades. His shooting range and the way he stretches the floor have transformed how the game is played, with teams across the NBA adopting a more three-point-heavy approach. Curry’s influence can be seen in the way the modern NBA emphasizes spacing, shooting, and fast-paced play.
He has also inspired a generation of younger players who grew up watching him redefine what’s possible from long range. Beyond his scoring, Curry’s work ethic, resilience through injury, and ability to lead a team have made him a role model for aspiring athletes everywhere.
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Conclusion
Stephen Curry has completed 15 seasons in the NBA, and his journey has been nothing short of remarkable. From overcoming early injury woes to becoming a two-time MVP and a four-time NBA champion, Curry’s legacy is secure. His transformative effect on the game ensures that his impact will be felt for years to come, even after he eventually retires. As he continues to defy age and perform at a high level, fans can expect more spectacular moments from the greatest shooter in basketball history.
