As the sun rises today, the basketball world celebrates Stephen Curry’s 36th birthday. Currently, the sharpshooter is avoiding tough defenders and nursing an ankle injury. While fans anticipate his return, they’re waiting for juicy details about what Chef cooked up for his birthday party. With that in mind, as Steph gets some much-needed rest, let’s take a look back at all the birthday horror movies the Baby-Faced Assassin has given fans throughout his career.
Overall, Stephen Curry has played in a total of 7 birthday games, gradually marking each outing better than before. His first game came against the Sacramento Kings in 2011, where he played alongside Monta Ellis. Curry posted 19 points in the 129-119 loss, making 5 threes and shooting 50% from the floor.
The arrival of the Trio – 2014
Curry’s second birthday game came during the promising 2013-14 season. Facing the young Kyrie Irving and the Cleveland Cavaliers, Curry scored 27 points at near 48% clip, alongside 8 assists. However, despite a 16-point lead in the first quarter, a questionable third quarter culminated in a 103-94 Warriors loss.
Journey to the first ring – 2015
The 2014-15 season marked when Klay Thompson and Curry broke their record for combined three-pointers in a season; one that they set the previous year. With the same energy and clip, the two shot 60% from the three (12-20) against the New York Knicks. While Thompson notched the game-high 27 points, Steph garnered a double-double with 25 points and 11 assists. Moreover, he only had 1 turnover in the game.
Surpassing MJ’s Chicago – 2016
Coming off a championship season, the Golden State surpassed Michael Jordan’s Chicago Bulls for the best regulation record ever. While doing so, Steph and squad schooled the New Orleans Pelicans on his birthday. Steph made 62% of his shots to score 27 points in just 3 quarters. Moreover, the trio of Steph, Draymond Green and Klay combined for 59 points and 19 rebounds on near 60% clip.
Another quest to a title – 2017
After losing to the Cleveland Cavaliers in Game 6, the 2016-17 season showed a different dominance from the Warriors; with Kevin Durant in the roster this time around. However, KD did not suit on Steph’s special day against the Philadelphia 76ers. Steph posted 29 points on an off shooting night, combining for 77 points with Dray and Klay. Despite a low scoring third quarter, the Warriors held the Sixers for a close 106-104 win.
The pandemic season – 2021
In a back to back season marked by injuries and failed playoff quest, Stephen Curry and the Warriors met the Utah Jazz. The changed roster saw Andrew Wiggins filing the void left by Kevin Durant. With that, Steph posted 32 points on 10 shots with 75% efficiency from the arc. The Dubs torched the Jazz since the first minute, winning the ball game 131-119.
Rise of the Phoenix – 2022
Like the mythological rising from the ashes, the Warriors, daunted by the pressures of dismantling franchise, fought for much more in the 2021-22 season. With that, they wreaked havoc on the Washington Wizards, commanding a 126-112 win. Curry, making 64% of his shots, posted 47 points – the most on his birthday, yet.
