Golden State Warriors have endured a rollercoaster stretch in recent weeks but managed to steady the ship with a crucial NBA victory over the New Orleans Pelicans. Adding to their momentum, the team welcomed back Stephen Curry from injury, and the superstar wasted no time reminding everyone of his greatness.
Chicago Bulls guard Lonzo Ball recently shared his thoughts on Curry’s impact during an episode of his podcast, What an Experience with Lonzo Ball. “Is Stephen Curry officially the most influential player of his era? As I’m pondering it, I would have to say yes. Especially the way younger people are playing—even the way the NBA is played now,” Ball said, per HoopsHype.
Ball made it clear that Curry’s influence extends beyond his accolades, shaping the way the game is played today—particularly among young players who look to emulate his style.
“The Warriors and him, they really started all them threes. I don’t think that record will ever be broken,” Ball added, highlighting Curry’s role in revolutionizing the three-point shot in the modern NBA.
Chicago Bulls guard Lonzo Ball (2) during the first half of a preseason game
Stephen Curry’s impact on the evolution of the game
Stephen Curry didn’t just redefine the point guard position—he fundamentally changed the way basketball is played. Before his emergence, NBA offenses were built around interior scoring and mid-range jumpers generated through pick-and-roll sets. However, Curry’s unprecedented success with the Warriors forced teams to rethink their approach, shifting the focus toward perimeter shooting, floor spacing, and constant movement.
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The NBA’s offensive shift
Curry’s ability to knock down three-pointers from anywhere on the court shattered the traditional belief that long-range shots should only be taken under specific circumstances—such as wide-open looks or late in the shot clock. His knack for draining threes in transition, off the dribble, and from absurd distances forced defenses to adapt, stretching their coverage beyond the arc.
As a result, NBA teams now prioritize players who can shoot efficiently from deep, while offensive systems are designed to generate open three-point looks. This shift has also diminished the role of traditional big men, compelling centers to develop perimeter shooting skills to remain effective in today’s game.
Statistical impact: before and after Curry
Before Curry’s rise to superstardom, the volume of three-point attempts per game was significantly lower across the league. In the 2010-11 season, NBA teams averaged approximately 18.0 three-point attempts per game. By the 2024-25 season, that number has skyrocketed to over 35 attempts per contest, with some teams surpassing 40.
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Beyond the sheer volume, Curry’s influence is also evident in efficiency. The league has seen a steady increase in three-point shooting percentages, with more players dedicating time to refining their perimeter game. During the 2014-15 season, when Curry won his first MVP award, the Warriors led the NBA with a 39.8% three-point shooting rate. Today, many teams structure their offenses around that same philosophy, a testament to how Curry’s impact has reshaped the league.
