On fire: Like a moving train! “Stephen Curry Breaks Records, Surpassing Michael Jordan and Charles Barkley on Two All-Time NBA Leaderboards, Solidifying His Status as an All-Time Great”…
Stephen Curry, often regarded as one of the most transformative players in basketball history, continues to solidify his legacy with remarkable achievements on the court.
Recently, Curry surpassed two NBA legends on significant all-time leaderboards, further proving his greatness and enduring impact on the game. Here’s a closer look at these milestones and their implications.
Surpassing Michael Jordan: A Guard’s Scoring Milestone After 35
On January 3, 2025, Curry added another extraordinary accomplishment to his résumé by surpassing Michael Jordan for the most 30-point games as a guard after turning 35.
With a dominant 30-point performance against the Philadelphia 76ers, Curry reached 40 such games, overtaking Jordan’s record of 39.
Curry’s historic night was punctuated by perfection from beyond the arc, as he shot 8-for-8 from three-point range, a feat that no other player in NBA history has accomplished in a game where they also recorded double-digit assists.
His ability to remain an elite scorer while facilitating for his teammates speaks volumes about his versatility and basketball IQ.
Jordan, often considered the greatest player of all time, set numerous benchmarks for excellence. For Curry to surpass one of Jordan’s records underscores not only his longevity but also his ability to adapt and evolve as a player as he ages.
At 36 years old, Curry continues to defy the expectations typically placed on players nearing the twilight of their careers.
Climbing the All-Time Scoring List
Earlier in the 2024-25 season, on November 7, 2024, Curry passed another NBA great, Charles Barkley, to move into 30th place on the league’s all-time scoring list.
Curry achieved this milestone during a game against the Boston Celtics, where he tallied 27 points and recorded a triple-double, leading the Golden State Warriors to a hard-fought 118-112 victory.
This accomplishment carried additional significance, given Barkley’s previous skepticism about the Warriors’ chances in recent years. Barkley had famously predicted a decline for the team, but Curry’s continued excellence has proven doubters wrong, keeping the Warriors competitive in a league full of younger stars.
As Curry climbs the all-time scoring ranks, it’s worth noting the unique way in which he has achieved his points. Known as the greatest shooter in NBA history, Curry has revolutionized the game with his deep three-point shooting and off-ball movement.
While many players on the all-time scoring list relied on physical dominance or a mid-range game, Curry has built his legacy by redefining offensive efficiency and spacing.
The Significance of Longevity in Curry’s Career
Longevity is often a hallmark of greatness in sports, and Curry’s recent achievements highlight how he has maintained his elite performance over an extended period. At 36 years old, he remains a central figure for the Warriors and continues to deliver in high-pressure situations.
His one-year, $62.6 million contract extension, signed before the season, reflects his value to the franchise and his ability to perform at an elite level.
This deal also brought Curry’s career earnings to over $536 million, placing him among the highest earners in NBA history, alongside LeBron James and Kevin Durant.
Beyond the financial aspects, Curry’s continued dominance sets a new standard for how modern athletes approach training, recovery, and adaptation as they age.
Curry’s Impact on the Game
Curry’s influence on basketball goes beyond individual records. He has redefined the way the game is played, with his deep three-point shooting inspiring a league-wide shift toward perimeter scoring.
Since becoming the NBA’s all-time leader in three-pointers made in December 2021, when he surpassed Ray Allen’s previous record of 2,973, Curry has continued to push the boundaries of what’s possible from long range.
Additionally, in April 2021, Curry became the Warriors’ all-time leading scorer, surpassing the legendary Wilt Chamberlain.
Achieving such milestones in a franchise with a storied history further cements his legacy as one of the greatest players to ever wear a Warriors jersey.
The Broader Context of Curry’s Achievements
Curry’s recent milestones come during an era of stiff competition, with younger stars like Luka Dončić, Giannis Antetokounmpo, and Jayson Tatum leading the next generation of talent.
Despite this, Curry has maintained his status as one of the league’s premier players, showcasing his ability to adapt his game and remain effective against younger, more athletic opponents.
His leadership on and off the court has also been instrumental in fostering a winning culture for the Warriors. As a four-time NBA champion and two-time MVP, Curry’s achievements extend far beyond personal accolades, encompassing team success and a lasting impact on the sport.
Looking Ahead
As Curry continues to defy age and expectations, there’s no telling how many more records he will set or break. His recent achievements serve as a reminder of his greatness and his unparalleled ability to perform on the biggest stages.
For fans of basketball, Curry’s journey is a testament to the power of hard work, resilience, and an unwavering commitment to excellence.
With each game, Stephen Curry adds another chapter to his legendary career. Whether it’s surpassing icons like Michael Jordan and Charles Barkley or leading the Warriors to another playoff run, Curry’s story is far from over—and the NBA is all the better for it.
