Lonzo Ball recently weighed in on the debate about the most influential players of the current NBA era. In a conversation on his podcast What An Experience with Lonzo Ball, the Chicago Bulls guard made a strong case for Stephen Curry as the player who has had the most significant impact on modern basketball.
Ball began by acknowledging Curry’s profound influence on how the game is played today. “Is Stephen Curry officially the most influential player of his era? As I’m pondering it, I would have to say yes,” Ball said, via HoopsHype. He pointed to the way younger players, as well as NBA teams, have shifted their approach to the game in response to Curry’s style of play.
Curry, often credited with revolutionizing the game through his shooting ability, particularly his three-point shooting, has undeniably altered the landscape of the NBA. According to Ball, the Golden State Warriors’ success under Curry’s leadership has sparked a widespread embrace of the three-point shot across all levels of basketball.
“The Warriors and him, they really started all them threes,” Ball said. “I don’t think that record will ever be broken.” Ball’s words refer to Curry’s numerous three-point shooting records, including his career achievements in both regular season and playoff games. The shift towards a more perimeter-oriented game has been one of the most notable trends in the NBA in recent years, largely due to Curry’s influence.
However, while Ball hailed Curry’s impact, he also acknowledged the longevity of LeBron James, who holds the all-time scoring record. “Bron’s longevity, how many years he’s been playing, and he’s still playing—I don’t think anybody’s catching that record,” Ball explained, referring to James’ remarkable ability to maintain elite performance into his 40s. Despite Curry’s dominant presence in the league, Ball made it clear that LeBron’s scoring record, which has stood for years, is a different kind of feat altogether.
Ball further clarified that although Curry’s three-point record may be in a class of its own, there is a chance that another player could eventually surpass it. However, he emphasized that the possibility of breaking LeBron James’ scoring record is much less likely, given James’ prolonged success and ability to perform at the highest level throughout his career.
When asked about which record he thought would never be broken, Ball did not hesitate to mention the legendary 100-point game by Wilt Chamberlain. “Second, I would say that 100-point game,” Ball said. The feat, which has stood for over 50 years, remains one of the most iconic records in NBA history, and many believe it will never be surpassed.
Curry’s influence goes beyond just his shooting range; he has changed the way younger players view their roles on the court. Today, aspiring players focus not only on improving their shooting skills but also on developing a broader skill set that mimics Curry’s versatility. His ability to handle the ball, create shots off the dribble, and stretch defenses has made him a prototype for the next generation of guards and forwards.
The evolution of the NBA since Curry’s rise to prominence has led to a more dynamic and fast-paced style of play, where shooting from distance has become a primary weapon. As Ball noted, Curry has played a pivotal role in shaping this shift, influencing both the strategies of NBA teams and the development of young players worldwide.
