Stephen Curry fires back at NBA legend Charles Barkley over comments about standout Warriors teammate

The Golden State Warriors made a strong statement in Game 1 of the first round of the NBA Playoffs, cruising past the Houston Rockets without much resistance. Stephen Curry led the way with 31 points and was interviewed postgame by NBA on TNT, sharing his thoughts with NBA legend Charles Barkley.

Draymond Green played a crucial supporting role, dominating the glass and bringing the energy the Warriors needed. Another standout was Jimmy Butler, who stepped up with an impressive performance while Curry was on the bench.

Since joining the Warriors, Butler has embraced the playoff spotlight. His ability to adapt quickly to the team’s system and contribute on both ends of the floor has made him a seamless fit alongside Curry and Green in their postseason push.

With the entire roster locked in and chasing a deep playoff run, Curry emphasized the team’s strong chemistry, not just in the locker room, but on the court as well. Speaking with Barkley after the game, Curry defended Butler’s elite status, calling attention to his impact and solidifying him as one of the league’s top players.

Jimmy Butler and Stephen Curry celebrating.

Curry responds to Barkley’s take on Jimmy Butler

During a segment on NBA on TNT, Charles Barkley posed a pointed question:
“He’s not as great as you, but he’s a really nice second closer to have on the team, correct?” Curry didn’t hesitate to defend Jimmy Butler. “Jimmy’s nice, don’t get that twisted,” Curry replied.

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He went on to praise Butler’s impact, saying: “He’s taken teams to the Finals. What he brings to us is another guy who’s comfortable with the ball in his hands. He creates plays for himself and for others. In this game, and in other moments, he can generate something out of nothing.“

With those comments, Curry made it clear: Butler’s value goes far beyond stats. The Warriors guard stood up for a player who has consistently delivered in high-stakes moments throughout his career.

Butler on Curry’s playoff brilliance

Following the Warriors’ win over the Rockets in Game 1 of their NBA playoff series, Butler was asked about Curry’s performance, and he didn’t hold back. “The only person who knows what’s coming out of the organized chaos is the one creating it,” Butler said of Curry.

Butler’s admiration highlighted the respect between two of the game’s fiercest competitors. With Curry leading the charge, the Warriors appear locked in as they look ahead to the rest of the series against Houston.