There are many players throughout the history of the NBA who have left their impact on the game, and are remembered fondly by fans of the game. But there are a select, special few who leave an impact so deep that it changes the way the game of basketball is played in the NBA, and brings in new fans from all corners of the globe.
What is the 15th most iconic jersey of all time? The 2009-2010 Stephen Curry Golden State Warriors away jersey is the 15th most iconic jersey of all time, according to SLAM Magazine’s “Top 75 Greatest Jerseys of All Time” list, created in collaboration with jersey reproduction manufacturer Mitchell & Ness. The jersey has a navy blue base, with dark golden yellow “Warriors” script lettering and numbers. The colors that predominantly make up this jersey are navy, orange, and golden yellow, albeit at different shades. Stephen Curry is the highest-ranked active player with an entry on SLAM Magazine’s list, which was released in 2021.
Why is Stephen Curry iconic?
Stephen Curry caught the nation’s attention while he was playing for Davidson, a relatively small D1 NCAA basketball program. He was one of the premier scorers in college basketball, especially from behind the arc. The Golden State Warriors selected him with the 7th overall pick, and he joined a struggling organization. Curry slotted right into the starting lineup, and while the Warriors were still struggling, Curry performed admirably. Partnering up with Klay Thompson in the backcourt, Curry became 1/2 of the “Splash Bros”, as his and Thompson’s elite shooting from the perimeter drew the attention of the league, the fans, and the world. A run of dominance for Curry has ensued, especially after teaming up with stars such as Kevin Durant and Draymond Green.
In his 13 years in the league, Curry has racked up 4 NBA titles (including the most recent NBA title), 1 NBA Finals MVP award, 2 regular-season MVPs awards (including the only player to unanimously win the MVP), 4 All-NBA First Team selections, 3 All-NBA Second Team selections, 8 NBA All-Star Game selections, 2 scoring titles, and regular season leader in steals, among other honors, such as being the NBA’s all-time leading 3-point scorer. His current career averages include 24.5 points, 4.6 rebounds, 6.5 assists, and 1.7 steals per game. He also shoots at a career average of 47.3% from the field, 42.8% from 3-point range, and an astounding 90.8% from the free-throw stripe.
Curry’s stacked resume continues to grow, and so does his impact on the game of basketball. His high volume and great accuracy from the 3-point line has consistently frustrated opposing players and coaches. Curry is the blueprint of the new NBA offense, which is focused on a faster pace and a higher reliance on 3-point shots. Curry has even popularized the “logo” shot, and shots that are particularly far from the 3-point line are known to be in “Curry” range. Curry is also the quintessential point guard, who is great at passing but also has fluid handles and a great inside scoring ability. While his defense is criticized, Curry is one of the best at stealing the ball and forcing a turnover. While Curry isn’t unathletic, he isn’t as dependent on his athleticism when it comes to his shooting, which is why many kids aspire to imitate his game.
Why is the 2009-2010 Stephen Curry Golden State Warriors away jersey iconic?
The 2009-2010 season was Stephen Curry’s introduction to the league, and the world. In his rookie season, Curry slotted into the starting lineup and showcased his ability to shoot and score: he averaged 17.5 points per game, 4.5 rebounds per game, 5.9 assists per game, and 1.9 steals per game. After a strong latter half of the season, Curry made a strong case for Rookie of the Year, although he placed second. But he did earn unanimous votes for the All-Rookie NBA First Team, and he also set the rookie record for 3-pointers made.
Why is the 2009-2010 Golden State Warriors away jersey iconic?
The 2009-2010 Golden State Warriors away jersey has a dark navy blue base, with orange side panels, with an adjacent yellow vertical stripe. The collar is dark navy blue with orange trim, and the base of the collar is a yellow triangle. The “Warriors” lettering curves upward to the right, and is a dark golden yellow outlined by a dark orange; the colors for the letters are the same. This is the final year the Warriors wore jerseys with this color scheme, and they reverted to their blue and yellow color scheme from the 1960s and 1970s.
The 2009-2010 Golden State Warriors were not in the best shape, despite adding rising star Stephen Curry through the draft. They were riddled with injuries, and traded away one of their best players in Stephen Jackson, who was unhappy. Curry was a bright spot, while guard Monta Ellis averaged over 25 points and 2 steals per game. Despite that, the Warriors finished with a poor 26-56 record, and missed the playoffs. However, the year, and the jersey, marked the start of the Curry era, and a rebrand after the season positioned the team for great successes in the new decade.
Which other notable players wore the 2009-2010 Golden State Warriors away jersey?
Other Warriors players, along with Stephen Curry, who wore the 2009-2010 Golden State Warriors away jersey include Monta Ellis, Stephen Jackson, and Corey Maggette.
Stephen Curry’s sharpshooting from behind the 3-point line has had not only a significant impact on the NBA, but to the game of basketball worldwide. He’s proved that his style of play is successful, coming off the back of another championship, but it’s undoubtedly an electric style to watch: no wonder his 2009-2010 Golden State Warriors away jersey, the jersey he wore when he burst into the league as a rookie, is so popular and iconic already.