ESPN has released its full list of the 74 greatest NBA players of all-time and Stephen Curry of the Golden State Warriors narrowly missed the top 10.
The NBA world has been in a frenzy over ESPN’s latest list in which they ranked the top 74 players of all-time. Multiple members of the Golden State Warriors made the list but Stephen Curry ranked as the second-highest active player, placing 13th.
One spot behind Curry is two-time Finals MVP, Kevin Durant. Other iconic Dubs such as Wilt Chamberlain (6th) and Rick Barry (43rd) made the cut while Klay Thompson and Draymond Green were not included in the list.
LeBron James is the only active player ranked higher than Curry and only the great Michael Jordan has been placed ahead of James. Curry stands alone as the only player shorter than 6’5″ and is the third-best point guard of all-time behind Magic Johnson (5th) and Oscar Robertson (11th).
Curry is placed ahead of legendary names like Julius Erving, Allen Iverson, Dwyane Wade. While this has caused some outrage from fans on Twitter, there is no debate that Curry has impacted the game in a far greater way than his competition.
The unanimous MVP revolutionized the game with his lethal 3-point shot. He not only hits more 3-pointers than everybody else but also shoots a better percentage than anyone as well. His usage and efficiency are impossible to match and at 32 years of age, he is already knocking on the door to be included in the top 10.
It will be a challenge to officially crack single digits though. Shaquille O’Neal (10th), Kobe Bryant (9th) and Tim Duncan (8th) guard the door and surpassing these players feels nearly impossible for Curry who is entering the back half of his prime.
It would take an incredible few seasons for Curry to rightfully enter his name in the top 10. A few more championships and of course, a Finals MVP, could help Curry move up in the order. For now, 13th feels like a generous but reasonable position for Steph.