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In the world of professional sports, there are very few athletes as popular as LeBron James and Stephen Curry. They are among the top 5 basketball players to ever step foot on the basketball court. With their consistent success well into their 30s, Stephen Curry and LeBron James have defined elite NBA play for almost a decade.

Due to that, Klay Thompson of the Golden State Warriors recently spoke about these global stars. He emphasized what motivates these renowned figures’ continuous success.

Klay Thompson talks about the hard work of his teammate

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While Curry and James have different playing styles, both have impressive longevity and team success. Numerous observers have questioned their leadership and accomplishments, but Thompson emphasized their unwavering work ethic in remaining at the top of the league in their mid-30s. “Steph is one of the hardest workers in the game,” Thompson said. “The sky is the limit. He might change the narrative of what it looks like to be elite till you’re 40. LeBron [James] is doing the same and Steph is following suit.”

Read More: Klay Thompson to Replace James Harden? Could He Ditch Stephen Curry & Warriors for Joel Embiid?

And with the amazing start Curry has taken this season, he further goes on to prove that age is just a number. He has entered his 13th NBA season at the age of 35. He is able to average 30 points per game. Curry has even made a record of averaging 30 points in the first 8 games of a season. This is an achievement no other basketball player in the history of the NBA has been able to achieve.

Klay Thompson recognizes that Curry’s continued success originates from an unrivaled work ethic, as many others in the league do. His basketball IQ equals Curry’s unwavering commitment to developing his game only and stunning three-point shooting ability. As he approaches his mid-30s, he shows no signs of slowing down and continues to push the boundaries of what we believe is possible. This is establishing a new level of brilliance that both fans and critics admire. However, if he is that good, why isn’t he even considered in the GOAT debate?

Why is Curry not even a part of the GOAT debate?

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Stephen Curry has had a massive influence on the game of basketball. Not only has he won championships and broken records, he has been able to revolutionize the game of basketball. Due to him, players and teams have now started focusing on three-point shooting.

And yet, he is not considered a GOAT of basketball. Why? First and foremost, while determining greatness, both individual and group accomplishments are considered. Curry’s unique brilliance is obvious in his scoring efficiency and unrivaled three-point shooting. However, in comparison to Michael Jordan, his team’s accomplishments fall short. Jordan’s six championships, including two three-peats, overshadow Curry’s accomplishments.

USA Today via Reuters

Another reason why people do not consider Curry a GOAT is because he has always had a star-studded team. Like the time the Warriors got Kevin Durrant and his addition led the team to win 2 championships. The question here arises: would have Curry been able to win a championship without any aid? However, there is one more reason why Curry is not a part of the GOAT debate. That is because of his defensive skills. A GOAT should be an all-round player and not just dominate in one sector of the field. However, even though he may not possess some qualities, Curry has left a mark on the sport of basketball that will never be forgotten.

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