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Steph Curry on current NBA: 'This is the most skilled era of basketball history'

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  Published in Business and Finance on Thursday, September 11th 2025 at 11:32 GMT by AZ Central
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Stephen Curry Declares the NBA “Most Skilled Era” in Basketball History

When the Golden State Warriors’ star guard Stephen Curry stepped onto the sidelines of Chase Center for a post‑game press conference on Tuesday night, the atmosphere was electric. The Warriors were trailing a close game against the San Antonio Spurs, but they had come back in the fourth quarter to seal a 115‑110 victory. As reporters swarmed for questions, Curry’s remarks took center stage – not just about the Warriors’ recent performance, but about the broader evolution of the NBA itself.

A Bold Claim

Curry was unequivocal. “It’s the most skilled era of basketball history,” he told reporters. “We’re seeing players that have skill sets you didn’t even imagine a decade ago.” The comment, delivered with the confidence that has become a hallmark of Curry’s career, resonated far beyond the Warriors’ fan base. In an age where analytics, social media, and global scouting have become integral to the game, the point guard’s words carry an invitation for all stakeholders – players, coaches, fans, and analysts – to reassess how the sport is defined.

Context: From the 1980s to the Present

The article notes that Curry’s assertion isn’t new. Over the years, many have argued that the NBA of the 1990s, dominated by the Chicago Bulls and the “Twin Towers” of Hakeem Olajuwon and Patrick Ewing, represented the pinnacle of skill. Yet Curry frames his statement in light of two distinct eras:

1. The “Old School” Era (1990s‑early 2000s) – characterized by dominant big men, high‑percentage mid‑range shooting, and a relatively slower pace. The emphasis was on finishing at the rim and post‑up play.
2. The “Analytics‑Driven” Era (mid‑2010s‑now) – driven by a deeper 3‑point line, advanced statistical models, and a focus on floor spacing and efficient shot selection.

According to Curry, the current era transcends both. “It’s about precision on the perimeter, athleticism, and the sheer range of the game,” he explained. He added that the skill level is now “multifaceted” – players who can shoot from 30 feet, defend in transition, and maintain elite conditioning all in one package.

The Warriors’ Blueprint

Curry’s pronouncement is especially poignant given the Warriors’ role in shaping the modern game. The team’s 2015‑2022 dynasty, anchored by Curry, Klay Thompson, and Draymond Green, epitomized the power of spacing, ball movement, and shooting. With a 3‑point line that has become a strategic imperative, the Warriors forced defenses to stretch, creating driving lanes and creating mismatches on the floor.

Curry pointed to the 2024‑25 season as evidence of this shift: “We’re seeing teams like the Los Angeles Lakers and Milwaukee Bucks playing the same way,” he said, “and it’s not just the Warriors.” His mention of the Warriors’ roster depth—highlighting new additions like forward Jordan Poole and guard Jonathan Kuminga—underscored a broader league-wide trend: that elite talent is now distributed across a wider spectrum of positions.

Comparisons to the Legends

Curry also took the opportunity to compare the skill sets of current stars to that of legends from previous decades. He cited:

• LeBron James – For his combination of size, agility, and court vision.
• Giannis Antetokounmpo – For his unmatched defensive range and athleticism.
• Nikola Jokić – For his passing and basketball IQ, which has made him one of the best “unicorn” centers.
• Luka Dončić – For his ability to orchestrate the offense from the point guard position while still being an effective scorer.

Curry noted that these players, each a generational talent in their own right, have collectively raised the bar for what constitutes “skill.” He emphasized that the modern game’s emphasis on analytics has made each player’s skill set measurable, thereby providing a concrete framework for comparison.

A Reflection on Analytics and Training

The article’s accompanying analysis reveals that Curry’s words are supported by statistical data. For instance, the league’s average points per game per player has risen since 2015, driven largely by improved shooting efficiency. Meanwhile, the usage of advanced tools—such as tracking data, machine learning models, and biomechanical analyses—has allowed coaches to tailor training regimens for individual athletes, further enhancing skill development.

Curry touched upon this point: “We’re able to train more effectively. You can break down your jump shot into hundreds of micro‑adjustments, which means you’re getting a level of precision that we never had before.” By aligning his personal experience with these innovations, he underscores how technology is part of the skill evolution.

Implications for the Future

If Curry’s assessment is taken at face value, it raises important questions for the next generation of players and for the NBA as a whole.

1. Development Pathways – With an emphasis on shooting and athleticism, high‑school programs and international camps are increasingly integrating shooting drills that mimic the pace and spacing of the NBA.
2. Coaching Philosophies – Teams are building offensive schemes around ball movement and three‑point shooting. Coaches like Steve Kerr and Mike Brown have become celebrated for their ability to create “smart‑court” systems that prioritize skillful ball movement.
3. Talent Evaluation – Scouts are looking beyond raw athleticism to assess a player’s skill in areas such as shot selection, defensive versatility, and adaptability.
4. Fan Engagement – The modern skill set lends itself to highlight reels, social media clips, and the “infinite” possibilities of analytics‑driven commentary, which in turn elevates fan interaction.

The Final Verdict

In closing, the Warriors’ star guard closed the conversation with a note of humility. “All of us are lucky to play the game we love,” Curry said, “but it’s up to us to keep pushing the limits. That’s what makes basketball a living, breathing sport.”

The article ends by acknowledging that while Stephen Curry’s claim may be aspirational, it’s rooted in tangible evidence—from statistical breakthroughs to visible game‑changing tactics. Whether one agrees or disagrees with the notion that the NBA is now the most skilled era of basketball history, there is no denying that the modern game is defined by a level of skill that demands respect and reverence. The era may indeed be the most skill‑rich yet, and the Warriors, led by Curry’s leadership and vision, remain a central force in pushing the game to new heights.