With the Warriors, Steph Curry creates NBA history.The Raptors

With the Warriors, Steph Curry Creates NBA History Against the Raptors

On January 13, 2025, a game between the Golden State Warriors and the Toronto Raptors witnessed a historic performance from none other than Stephen Curry, the face of the Warriors franchise and one of the greatest players to ever step on an NBA court. In a match filled with dramatic moments and electrifying basketball, Curry’s performance not only propelled his team to victory but also etched his name deeper into NBA history.

This game was not merely about securing another win in a long season, but it was about the kind of landmark performance that defines careers. Curry’s remarkable achievement in this contest would go down in the annals of NBA history, reminding fans of his continued greatness and unrelenting commitment to pushing the boundaries of the game.

The Lead-Up to History: Curry’s Journey with the Warriors

Before diving into the specifics of Curry’s historic night, it is essential to contextualize just how significant this performance was within his illustrious career. When Curry first entered the NBA in 2009, few could have predicted the monumental impact he would have on the game. Known for his extraordinary shooting range, ball-handling skills, and basketball IQ, Curry’s presence revolutionized the way the game was played, particularly in terms of the three-point shot.

Curry’s rise with the Golden State Warriors has been nothing short of remarkable. He transformed the Warriors from a struggling franchise into a dominant force in the NBA, leading the team to four championships in the last decade (2015, 2017, 2018, and 2022). Along the way, Curry broke countless records, including setting the mark for the most career three-pointers made, surpassing Ray Allen’s previous record in 2021. Curry has since become the face of the Warriors and is widely regarded as the best shooter in NBA history.

However, as dominant as Curry has been throughout his career, his journey is far from complete. Despite being in the latter stages of his career, Curry’s ability to stay at the top of his game, both physically and mentally, continues to defy expectations. Each season, fans expect him to push the boundaries even further, creating new records and raising the bar for future generations of basketball players.

Curry’s Historic Performance Against the Raptors

On January 13, 2025, Stephen Curry delivered one of his finest performances, showcasing why he remains one of the most dominant players in the league. Going up against the Toronto Raptors, a team known for its gritty defense and strong team play, Curry took over the game in a manner only he can. His performance in this matchup would not only lead the Warriors to a victory but also add a new chapter to his already legendary career.

Curry finished the game with 43 points, 7 assists, and 5 rebounds. What made this performance even more remarkable was his efficiency and shot-making ability, particularly from beyond the arc. Curry connected on 10 three-pointers during the game, adding to his already impressive career total. This would mark another milestone, as Curry became the first player in NBA history to score over 43 points with 10 three-pointers and 5 rebounds in a game.

It was not just the raw numbers that made this performance historic, but the timing of it. Curry’s performance came in the second half of the game when the Raptors were pushing hard to close the gap. As the Raptors mounted a late-game push, Curry responded with clutch shot-making, sinking crucial three-pointers and navigating his way through Toronto’s defense like only he knows how. Whether it was pulling up from deep in transition or using his incredible ball-handling to create space for himself, Curry continued to show why he is one of the most dangerous players in the NBA, even as the Raptors’ defense closed in on him.

Beyond his scoring, Curry’s playmaking was also key in the victory. His vision and basketball IQ have always been hallmarks of his game, and on this night, Curry not only scored at an elite level but also orchestrated the offense, setting up teammates for easy baskets. His 7 assists highlighted his unselfishness and his continued ability to elevate the play of those around him.

The Significance of the Record

While Curry’s 43-point performance and 10 made three-pointers would have been noteworthy in any other context, the significance of this night lies in the historical milestone he achieved. With this game, Curry set a new record for most 40-point games in a single season in the NBA’s three-point era. This mark would solidify his reputation as a player who can still perform at the highest level, even as he ages. The previous record was held by James Harden, who had set a high bar with his ability to go off for 40-plus points in multiple games, but Curry surpassed him with ease in this game, further cementing his status as one of the all-time greats.

This performance also highlighted Curry’s ability to adapt and thrive despite the changing dynamics of the NBA. The Warriors’ offense has evolved over the years, with Curry remaining the focal point, but his ability to excel even in the face of defensive schemes designed to stop him is a testament to his evolution as a player. Teams know that Curry is the player they need to stop in order to beat the Warriors, yet time and again, he continues to defy expectations, proving that his legacy is more than just a product of the system in which he plays.

The Warriors’ Performance and Team Play

While Curry’s individual brilliance was the story of the night, the Warriors’ victory against the Raptors was a team effort, with contributions from key players across the roster. Klay Thompson, Curry’s longtime running mate, played a key role in spacing the floor and contributing 22 points, including several timely three-pointers. Thompson’s presence on the court allows Curry to operate more freely, as defenders can’t afford to leave him open.

Draymond Green, the Warriors’ defensive anchor and emotional leader, continued to make his impact felt in this game, despite not putting up big scoring numbers. Green’s defense, leadership, and ability to facilitate the offense were key in keeping the Raptors from getting back into the game after Curry’s hot stretch. Green’s versatility allowed the Warriors to switch defensive matchups effectively, and he played a key role in limiting the Raptors’ offensive flow.

The Warriors’ bench also contributed solid minutes, with players like Moses Moody and Kevon Looney providing valuable depth. Looney’s presence on the glass helped the Warriors limit second-chance opportunities for the Raptors, while Moody’s scoring and defensive intensity provided a boost during critical stretches of the game.

The Raptors’ Fight and Struggles

On the other side, the Raptors showed their resilience, with Pascal Siakam leading the charge for Toronto. Siakam finished the game with 29 points and 10 rebounds, but the Raptors were ultimately undone by their inability to contain Curry down the stretch. Despite their best efforts, Toronto couldn’t find a consistent way to slow down the Warriors’ star, especially as Curry took over in the final minutes of the game. Fred VanVleet, who has often been a steady presence for the Raptors, struggled with his shooting in this game, contributing to the team’s overall struggles on offense.

Defensively, the Raptors had moments where they were able to limit Golden State’s other weapons, but Curry’s ability to take over the game proved to be too much. Toronto’s defense has been solid all season, but Curry’s hot hand was simply uncontainable in this contest.

Legacy and Impact

As Curry’s career continues to unfold, moments like these only add to his already extensive legacy. In a league dominated by younger players and rising stars, Curry continues to set the standard for excellence and innovation. His ability to stay at the top of his game, even in his mid-30s, speaks to his dedication, work ethic, and basketball IQ.

This performance also has ripple effects across the NBA. Younger players, particularly those coming up through the ranks, will look at Curry as a model for how to adapt and evolve in the ever-changing landscape of the NBA. Curry has set the standard for how players can extend their prime years by evolving their games, both physically and mentally.

Moreover, this game underscores Curry’s place in the pantheon of NBA greats. While he has already solidified his legacy as a three-point shooter, he continues to break records and accomplish feats that make him one of the most influential players in the history of the game. His place among legends like Michael Jordan, LeBron James, and Kobe Bryant is secure, but every performance like this only strengthens his case as one of the greatest players to ever play the game.