The rivalry and mutual respect between Steph Curry and Kyrie Irving have been evident throughout their careers, especially since their memorable showdown in the 2016 NBA Finals.
Irving’s comments after Friday night’s game between the Golden State Warriors and Dallas Mavericks underscored the admiration he holds for Curry and the impact the two have had on each other’s games.
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Irving’s acknowledgment of Curry’s work ethic and the standard he has set for point guards reflects the reverence many players in the league have for the Warriors’ superstar. He recognizes Curry’s influence on the position and acknowledges the challenge of trying to match his legacy.
“I just show respect to the guys like that. He has put in a ton of work in our league. He has set the bar for a lot of us point guards of where we want to be, we are still chasing his legacy.” – Kyrie Irving
Moreover, Irving’s comments about incorporating aspects of Curry’s game into his own demonstrate the level of admiration he has for Curry’s skill set. As one of the most dynamic scorers in the league, Curry’s ability to shoot from anywhere on the court and his innovative ball-handling techniques have inspired countless players, including Irving, to emulate his style of play.
“It’s inevitable as a competitor to want to play well against somebody like that. He brings the best out of you. He’s gonna come in and do Steph Curry things… For me, I’ve tried to take some of his strengths that he does well and incorporate them into my game… There’s definitely mutual respect.”- Kyrie adds
Irving’s emphasis on the competitive nature of their matchups highlights the intensity and excitement that arise whenever they face off on the court. Their battles have been memorable, characterized by high-level performances and thrilling moments that showcase the best of their abilities.
Ultimately, Irving’s words reflect not only the respect he has for Curry as a competitor but also the impact Curry has had on the game of basketball as a whole. Their rivalry serves as a testament to their greatness and the enduring legacy they will leave on the sport.