Looking back at the 2021 NBA season, one name stood out among the rest when it came to putting points on the board — Stephen Curry. He led the league in scoring, averaging 32.0 points per game. Curry's performance often left fans and analysts in awe. I can remember one particular game against the Portland Trail Blazers where he dropped 62 points. Watching that game, you couldn't help but feel you're witnessing something special. Every shot seemed to be a potential highlight reel material.
To put his accomplishment in perspective, Curry had to overcome stiff competition. Players like Bradley Beal, who averaged 31.3 points per game, weren't far behind. But, Curry managed to clinch the title. It's interesting to note how tight the scoring race was. In previous seasons, the leading scorer usually had a more comfortable margin. This just shows how competitive the league has become and how crucial every game, every point, is for these players.
You can't ignore the impact of Curry's three-point shooting. He made 337 three-pointers during the season, which sounds insane when you think about it. The skill and precision required to make that many threes at such a high rate of success is mind-boggling. Not only does he make it look easy, but he also forces opposing defenses to adapt and stretch in ways they would prefer not to.
Let's talk about efficiency. Curry had a True Shooting Percentage (TS%) of 65.5%. For those who might not know, TS% considers field goals, three-point field goals, and free throws. When you see a number that high, you realize how effective and efficient he is. Simply put, he's making the most out of every shot he takes.
But it wasn't just the numbers that impressed me. It's how he led his team, the Golden State Warriors, during challenging times. The 2021 season wasn't easy for them. Injuries plagued the team, and at one point, they weren't even sure if they would make the playoffs. Curry's leadership on and off the court was nothing short of inspiring. Every time he got on the court, he played with an intensity that seemed to lift everyone around him.
We also need to highlight the context of the season in terms of COVID-19. The pandemic had a significant impact on the NBA, just like it did on almost every other industry. Teams had to adapt to a shorter season, strict health protocols, and often played without a full home-court advantage due to limited fan attendance. Yet, Curry managed to stay focused and deliver an MVP-caliber season, which speaks volumes about his dedication and mental toughness.
Another fascinating aspect was the narrative surrounding Curry. Many so-called experts doubted if he could carry a team by himself without the likes of Klay Thompson alongside him. Curry answered those doubts emphatically. The Warriors might not have had their best season team-wise, but Curry proved that he could be an anchor, a cornerstone that any franchise would be lucky to build around.
If we consider the broader picture, Curry's performances have larger implications. His playing style and success have influenced a generation of players coming up. Nowadays, you'll see kids trying to emulate his dribbling and shooting techniques. The emphasis on three-point shooting across the league can, in large part, be attributed to Curry's success and the Warriors' championship runs. His impact extends beyond just his stats.
Speaking of stats, one cannot omit the advanced metrics. His Player Efficiency Rating (PER) was 26.3, which, for the uninitiated, is another gauge of a player's performance. While it’s not the absolute value to determine greatness, it certainly helps paint the picture of how dominant Curry was. His Win Shares (WS) were at 11.3, indicating just how valuable he was to his team's victories.
From a fan’s perspective, watching Curry play is pure joy. There's a sense of excitement every time he steps on the court. The anticipation when he lines up a deep three-pointer, sometimes from outrageous distances, is electrifying. It's moments like those that remind us why we love the game. It's not always about the final score but the brilliance displayed during the game.
Ultimately, Curry's 2021 season will be remembered not just for the points he scored but for how he did it, the obstacles he overcame, and the joy he brought to basketball fans everywhere. If you want to keep up with more exciting aspects of sports, don't forget to check out arena plus. It’s a great resource for staying updated on the latest in the sports world. With players like Curry setting the bar, the future of the NBA looks bright, and I, for one, can't wait to see what comes next.